Jet2 brands and Manchester airport launch sign language initiatives

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have announced a partnership with SignLive, giving customers the option to have phone conversations with the airline and tour operator translated into British Sign Language (BSL) in real time.

 

The free service means that customers who are deaf or hard of hearing can have conversations with Jet2’s Assisted Travel Team interpreted in real time by a qualified online BSL interpreter, who will relay the conversation via the SignLive app or web browser.

 

Steve Wilson, assisted travel manager at Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “This fantastic partnership with SignLive makes communicating with our dedicated team even easier and we know it will further enhance how customers get the support they need.”

 

News of the service comes as Manchester airport announced that more than 100 staff have signed up for a British Sign Language (BSL) course as part of a programme to improve the service provided to deaf and hearing-impaired travellers.

 

The inaugural five-week BSL training programme is part of a partnership between the airport and the Cheshire-based sensory support charity DSN (Deaf & Sensory Network).

 

Staff are given tailored tuition so they can use BSL and learn some of the specific language that may be used by travellers in an airport. 

 

DSN is also partnering with Manchester airport to drive public awareness and understanding of sensory loss as part of its Deaf Awareness Week campaign.

 

A pop-up information stand in Terminal 2, near the Special Assistance desks, opened today (May 6).

 

Other offerings at the airport include a British Sign Language (BSL) Live Interpreter service; ‘Touch to Tell’ icons added to passenger information kiosks; and a BSL Security preparation video added to the airport website.

 

Deaf Awareness Week (May 5-11) emphasises breaking barriers, advocating for accessibility and celebrating the resilience and contributions of deaf individuals.  

 

Pictured: Manchester airport staff learning British Sign Language (BSL).