Signs Are Good For Hertfordshire

Story from Police Oracle.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has scooped a prestigious 'Organisational Achievement' award for the commitment the Force has shown to bridging the communications gap between deaf and hearing people on its beat.

The annual Signature Awards, which were held in the Crowne Plaza in London, recognise outstanding achievement by those who have made a significant contribution towards a society in which deaf and deafblind people have full access.

Detective Constable Beccy Driscoll, Sergeant Debbie Jackson and Detective Sergeant Linda Cullin-Moir, who spearheaded the Force's work in this area throughout 2008 and 2009, were on hand to collect the award. In particular, the award recognises of the Force's initiatives including deaf awareness training, the introduction of Link Officers who aid communication between deaf and hearing people and the launch of the Emergency SMS number providing equal access to emergency services for all.

Beccy, said "We were extremely proud to have the recognition of initially being shortlisted, but to discover that we actually won the award is tremendous news for us. It is a great honour and fantastic recognition of the Constabulary's achievements to be acknowledged by Signature in making a significant contribution to a society where deaf people have full access.

"The work we have undertaken to overcome communication barriers to date has been challenging, though well received and has proved to be effective in our day to day service delivery."

Inspector Ian Tycer, responsible for improving Hertfordshire Constabulary's Quality of Service, also attended the event. He said "Everyone has worked very hard to improve access to the Constabulary for deaf people. As well as the Emergency text number, 07786 207091, we have qualified BSL (British Sign Language) officers across the county available to communicate with deaf people. It is a privilege to be recognised by Signature for our attempts to ensure that everyone can easily access our services."

Jim Edwards, Signature Chief Executive, said "Many police forces across Great Britain are starting to improve the ways they serve the needs of deaf people in the community who may be victims of crime or involved in the criminal justice system. Hertfordshire Constabulary's commitment and innovation has really led the way. They thoroughly deserve this award."

In all there were five awards given out: the Joseph Maitland Robinson Award for Outstanding Contribution, Communication Professional of the Year, Organisational Achievement, Teacher of the Year and Learner of the Year.

Jim continued "This year's awards have been a huge success. Our winners very much deserve all the praise they have received. More than 200 nominations were made across all categories and all our finalists deserve credit for their achievements.

"We're already planning next year's event and look forward to hearing about more people and organisations that are really making a difference for deaf communications and deaf people across the whole of the UK."

The charity administers accredited qualifications throughout the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands at more than 700 locations.

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