Organising a large-scale events comes with its fair share of challenges, from logistics and planning to technology and infrastructure, not to mention communication and accessibility.
To ensure your event is inclusive and open to a diverse audience, hiring BSL event interpreters is a must, as demonstrated by Adobe, who booked Prestige Network BSL Interpreting Services for their recent Adobe Summit.
If you’re hiring BSL interpreters for your next event, here are some of the things you need to consider:
Line of Sight
Assess the venue’s seating arrangement and sightlines to ensure all attendees have a clear view of the interpreters.
Avoid placing interpreters in areas that obstruct attendees’ view of the speaker and the interpreter.
Consider using video screens or projection systems to provide a close-up view of the interpreters if necessary.
Lighting
Ensure that the interpreters are well-lit to make their signing clearly visible to attendees. Good lighting helps enhance visibility and reduces eye strain for attendees who rely on visual communication. Collaborate with the venue to adjust lighting conditions if necessary.
Stage and Presentation Setup
If the event involves a stage or presentation setup, ensure the interpreters have an appropriate placement. This will allow them to be visible to the speaker and the audience while maintaining a professional presence. Coordinate with the event organisers to arrange suitable space and equipment for the interpreters.
Sound System
Verify that the venue’s sound system is correctly set up and functional. Clear and high-quality audio is crucial for both the interpreters and the attendees to follow the spoken content effectively. Regularly check the sound equipment to ensure that it is suitable for the size of the venue and that it can transmit sound without distortion.
Accessible Seating
Designate specific seating areas for attendees who require BSL interpretation. Ensure that these seating areas have good sightlines to the interpreters and are easily accessible for individuals with mobility aids, and clearly communicate the availability of these seats to attendees in advance and during the event.
Visual Aids
Consider incorporating visual aids or supplementary materials, such as captioning or slides, to accompany the BSL interpretation. Visual aids can enhance comprehension for attendees with different communication preferences or language proficiency, providing a more comprehensive experience.
Venue Accessibility
Make sure that the venue itself is accessible to individuals with disabilities. Ensure the availability of ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and other necessary accommodations. It’s essential to consider the overall accessibility of the venue to ensure an inclusive experience for all attendees.
By considering these venue-specific factors, you can create a more inclusive and accessible environment for all event participants.
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