Metrocentre, one of Europe’s largest shopping and leisure destinations, is proud to announce its partnership with SignLive, a Deaf-owned and Deaf-led UK-based organisation that provides online video British Sign Language (BSL) interpreting services. This collaboration underscores Metrocentre’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals have seamless access to information and services within the centre.
Through this partnership, BSL users visiting Metrocentre can now connect to the SignLive app and communicate their inquiries to a qualified interpreter. The interpreter will then relay the message to a member of the Metrocentre staff via video or phone call, facilitating real-time assistance. This service enables Deaf customers to inquire about store directories, opening times, gift card purchases, Shopmobility hire, and more.
Metrocentre will offer both Video Relay Service (VRS) and Video Remote Interpreter (VRI) through SignLive. VRS allows customers to contact Metrocentre remotely via the app, where an interpreter will relay their message to a member of staff over the phone. VRI, on the other hand, enables face-to-face communication within the centre by connecting customers with an interpreter via video call, providing instant translation between the customer and Metrocentre staff in real-time. This ensures that Deaf customers can receive the support they need, whether planning their visit in advance or requiring assistance on-site.
For first-time users, a simple one-time registration with SignLive is required. Once logged in, customers can contact Metrocentre for free through the SignLive Community Directory, which ensures that all organisations listed, now including Metrocentre, are free to call and use. QR codes have been placed around the centre, allowing visitors to scan and instantly access SignLive’s services, sign up, and use the app on the spot. The service is available 24/7, ensuring support is always at hand.
General Manager of SignLive, Steph Lotz, commented, “I am delighted to see Metrocentre partner with SignLive to enhance accessibility for deaf shoppers. Shopping is more than just a transaction—it’s about experience, connection, and enjoyment. By providing remote BSL interpreting, Metrocentre is ensuring that every visitor can navigate, communicate, and fully enjoy everything the centre has to offer. This is a fantastic step towards a more inclusive and welcoming shopping experience for all.”
With the UK being home to over 150,000 BSL users, integrating SignLive’s services into Metrocentre not only enhances accessibility but also opens its doors to an underserved segment of the population, reinforcing its dedication to every visitor.
Gavin Prior, Centre Director at Metrocentre, commented on the partnership: “Collaborating with SignLive is a significant step towards making Metrocentre a truly inclusive environment. We are dedicated to ensuring that every visitor, regardless of their communication needs, feels welcome and supported. This partnership allows us to provide real-time assistance to our Deaf and hard-of-hearing customers, ensuring they have the same experience and access to our services as everyone else.”
By embracing this technology, Metrocentre is committed and dedicated to strengthening its accessibility within the centre, ensuring that all customers feel valued and heard when visiting.