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Kent pioneers deaf text service |
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A new SMS service for deaf and speech-impaired people was launched at Kent Police Headquarters. The launch of the partnership project coincided with a visit from Anne McGuire, Minister for Disabled People, who was visiting Kent Police Headquarters to attend a disability action group meeting. The initiative is a joint venture between Kent Police, Kent County Council (KCC) and Kent Fire and Rescue (KFRS), and will allow those with hearing and speech problems to ‘text’ the emergency services when they require help.
Those using the SMS system will have to start their text with the word ‘police’, ‘medic’ or ‘rescue’ depending on which service they need, followed by the rest of their message. The text will then be channelled to the relevant organisation and dealt with immediately. Kent Police Assistant Chief Constable Steve Harris said: “This new service means that deaf and speech impaired people will be able to alert emergency services of concerns they have quickly and effectively, without having to face problems that could be linked to conventional methods. With technology moving forward all the time, it's vital that we use the latest and most efficient means of communication for everybody in our local communities.” Minister for Disabled People, Anne McGuire, said: “I am delighted to see the launch of this invaluable text messaging service. It will empower deaf and speech-impaired people to gain quick and easy access to emergency services where and when they need to. I would like to express my thanks and congratulations to all the organisations which have put in such hard work and dedication to make this happen. This project is a great example for the rest of the country.” KCC Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services, Kevin Lynes said: “I am delighted that Our Deaf Forum and staff in Deaf Services have played such an important role in the setting up of this vital system. This is an excellent example of pooling resources and together with Kent Police and Kent Fire and Rescue; this new initiative can quite literally save lives.” Assistant Director of Kent Fire and Rescue, Steve Griffiths, said: “We are delighted to be teaming up with our emergency services colleagues to launch this new service. It is really important to us that deaf people are able to contact us quickly and easily if they need our help – and this new service is a great solution.”
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