Consumer Panel calls on Ofcom to set up a video relay service for deaf and partially hearing consumers
04 February 2011
The Consumer Panel has called on Ofcom to look at how to introduce a video relay service, and improve access to the existing text relay services for deaf, partially deaf or speech impaired people.
Panel Chair Anna Bradley said that Ofcom’s initial research into users’ views of existing text relay and other communications services “has highlighted two important things - some people are finding 'work-arounds' to meet their needs, while others are very clear about the improvements they need that could transform their lives. We now want Ofcom to implement changes to text relay and look at creating video relay, although we are conscious that the costs are substantial. These services will be particularly critical for some people, so we would like Ofcom to talk with consumers about how best to deliver the service in a way that ensures it reaches those who need it most”.