A new service has been launched to make 999 calling more accessible for people who use British Sign Language (BSL).

999 BSL connects users to British Sign Language interpreters remotely through the 999 BSL app on their phone, or via the 999 BSL website.

In an emergency situation, the interpreter will appear on the caller's screen and can relay the conversation to the 999 call handler.

An event was held last Friday (17 June) at Joint Headquarters, which is just four miles from Hucknall, to launch the service in Nottinghamshire. It was attended by members of the deaf community, the Chief Fire Officer, Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Joint Fire Control and police and fire staff.

Chief Fire Officer Craig Parkin said: "We're proud to be here with the deaf community and our partners in Nottinghamshire to launch this service, which makes 999 calling more accessible for people who use British Sign Language.

"We want the services we offer to our communities to be as inclusive as they can, and we are working to improve so we can keep people safe from fire and other emergencies."

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service offers specific support for people who are deaf and hard of hearing, details of which can be found by clicking here.