New BSL service helps Deaf people contact police on 101

 

A new service is available for the Deaf and hearing-impaired community to contact North Wales Police using British Sign Language (BSL).

The service is called Convo Now.

It helps BSL users contact police about non-emergency issues using a live video interpreter.

You can use the Convo Now app or website to contact police.

The service is free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

A qualified BSL interpreter will join the video call and communicate to the police on your behalf.

The service comes in addition to the current text line, where users speak to an operator via text on 18001 101.

You can use Convo to:

• report a non-emergency crime.
• report something that has already happened.
• ask for police advice.
• contact your local police officer or PCSO.

To use the service for the first time, you must register with Convo.

North Wales Police Control Room Manager, David McMahon said: “We want Deaf people and BSL users to contact us easily and confidently when they need help.

“Convo gives people better access to our non-emergency police service.

“We are committed to supporting Deaf and hard of hearing people in our community.

“This service is a step towards fostering further inclusivity and making North Wales the safest place to live, work and visit in the UK.”

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin said: “The introduction of Convo is a really important step forward in making policing services more accessible and inclusive for Deaf people and BSL users across North Wales.

“As PCC I believe everyone should be able to contact the Police with confidence and initiatives like this help break down communication barriers and keep people safe.

“By improving access, we are strengthening trust, ensuring fairness, and making sure no one is excluded from the support they may need.”

Steph Lotz, UK General Manager for Convo said: “We believe deaf people should be able to engage with public services confidently and independently, especially in moments where trust, safety, and clarity matter deeply.

“We are proud to partner with North Wales Police to help create more immediate pathways for Deaf British Sign Language users to connect with police services and support.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to equality, inclusion, and ensuring deaf people are able to engage with police services with greater confidence and ease.”

To register for free:

• download the Convo Now
• or visit the Convo website: Convo Now | Login

In the future, we are looking to use Convo in more ways to support Deaf people.

This will include:

• at police station front desks.
• in police custody areas.
• with police officers out in the community.

We will update you when these additional services become available.

For emergencies, Deaf people can still use the BSL 999 service.