Access All AreasDeaf and hard of hearing visitors to The O2 will now be able to book tickets through a direct customer service line, thanks to a new partnership.
The O2 has signed a deal with SignVideo, a British Sign Language (BSL) video interpreting service, that connects customers to a fully qualified BSL interpreter who will relay the conversation in real-time to a customer service agent at the London venue.
The O2 also offers full BSL interpretation of all the shows and performances at the venue.
“We’re thrilled that The O2 has chosen us to help deliver BSL customer services,” said Jeff McWhinney, chairman and founder of SignVideo. “The O2 is already supporting its deaf BSL customers by offering performance interpreting, so it’s a natural extenstion to add customer services in BSL too.
“Using text-based services like email and webchat for customer services actually creates more of a barrier for us deaf BSL users, and as a result we struggle to gain easy access to help when we need it. I am sure the deaf BSL community will be delighted that they can now contact The O2 in their own language, quickly and easily, and we would encourage other entertainment venues to follow The O2’s great example.”
The O2 is recognised as a Gold Charter venue by accessibility charity Attitude is Everything, who campaign for better access for deaf and disabled concertgoers nationally.
“We’re always looking to enhance the experience of all of our customers, especially those with specific access needs,” said Adam Wilson, head of customer relations at The O2. “Providing the British Sign Language service through SignVideo will enable even more fans to enjoy the shows they love at the venue. We’re delighted to be the first to offer this in the UK.”