GTR offers free use of innovative sign language app to assist deaf rail passengers

The UK’s largest train operator is offering free use of an innovative sign language app to remove barriers for passengers who are deaf or suffer hearing loss – and help them travel with confidence across its 11-county network.

Customers will be able to use the SignLive app at all 236 of its managed stations, on board trains and with its call centres to communicate with Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) staff using a trained British Sign Language interpreter on their smartphone screen.

The train company, which runs Thameslink, Great Northern, Southern and Gatwick Express services, has partnered up with SignLive to further improve support for passengers with accessibility needs.

Vincent Duffy, GTR’s Accessibility Improvement Manager, said: “We are dedicated to encouraging as many people as possible to use our railway regardless of their access needs, by removing potential barriers.

“SignLive will help our BSL-using customers who may otherwise be discouraged from using the railway, to travel on our trains with confidence.”

SignLive can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store (see editor’s notes).

Customers just need to tap the brand of their chosen train operator in the app to be connected to an interpreter, who can translate conversations with staff both on stations, trains and in its contact centres. GTR will cover the cost of using the service (see editor's notes).

The agent can be contacted for all customer support queries, like general information enquiries, providing feedback or booking assistance.

A spokesperson for SignLive added: “SignLive is delighted to partner with Govia Thameslink Railway. GTR is taking a meaningful step toward improving accessibility for BSL users across their network.

“Through their partnership with SignLive, passengers will gain access to an on-demand video interpreting service, ensuring smooth communication with staff and access to vital travel information.

“This initiative highlights a commitment to inclusivity, empowering deaf travellers with greater independence and confidence on their journeys.”

It comes less than two months after GTR rolled out the free use of the AIRA smartphone app for blind and partially sighted customers at all its managed stations.

AIRA enables passengers with sight loss to navigate railway stations and trains through the assistance of an agent using the camera on their mobile device.

ENDS

Notes to editor:

Anyone with the app downloaded to their phone will be able to select their chosen train brand to be connected with an interpreter free of charge*

*GTR is covering the cost of using the SignLive app but data charges may apply depending on the customer’s mobile phone data plan.

The SignLive app can be installed at:

https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/signlive-2-0/id1545172283

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.convo.vriapp&hl=en_GB&gl=US&pli=1