Sign Language
(The following applies to Sky digital only)What is sign language?
British Sign language (BSL) is a language in its own right, using hand movements and facial mannerisms to represent letters, words or phrases.
In the spring of 2003 the Government formally recognised the existence of BSL. It is used by deaf people within the United Kingdom and has more users than the Welsh Language.
Sky has been providing in-vision sign language since 2000. Sky channels are regulated under the 2003 Communications Act, for the provision of sign language.
Sky's Programme Services Department already provides over 400 hours of sign language a year for Sky channels.
What does Sky do?
Sky provides sign language on the following channels:-
Also, sign language is now available on selected Sky Box Office movies, on Sky Box Office channel 745.
How is it done?
A team of six very highly qualified and experienced interpreters are part of the SSLT (Sky's Sign Language Team).
Live:
Into the studio they go, make-up on, nerves twitching as if it is their first time again. The interpreters prepare by following the programmes in advance as much as possible, to get an idea of what is happening.
The red light goes on...they start. A flurry of hands and a professional look, the translation begins.
Pre-recorded:
They will have watched the programme (probably several times before), making notes of when they feel it relevant to be interpreting on and off screen.
With the studio booked, make-up on, hands to the ready...roll to record...action...off we go!
How do you get it?
Any programme that carries sign language interpretation will automatically appear on your TV.
To activate Sky News signed on Sunday mornings:
What to do now?
So now just click through to our TV Guide, to see which Sky programmes have sign language over the next week.