RNID and Barclays revolutionise access to IT skills training for deaf people

For the first time ever, deaf and hard of hearing people nationwide will be able to access IT training in their preferred language - British Sign Language (BSL) or Irish Sign Language (ISL) - using the pioneering Sign IT DVD ROM launched today (Wednesday 26th May).

Sign IT was developed by RNID - the largest charity representing 9 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK - as part of its together IT works partnership project with Barclays, to enable deaf and hard of hearing people to meet their training needs and those of the labour market. This unique training tool utilises cutting-edge technology to provide an interactive and user-friendly learning experience for deaf and hard of hearing people.

It is assumed that technology provides a level playing field between deaf and hearing people, yet not enough is being done to make sure that people with disabilities enjoy the benefits that technology can bring. RNID believes that this DVD ROM will improve computer literacy and enhance employment opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing people. This is vital given that 19 per cent of deaf and hard of hearing people are unemployed, compared with five per cent of the general population, and 90 per cent of all jobs now require computer skills.

Sign IT enables users to navigate and learn one hundred key terms and concepts in IT by downloading video clip tutorials in their preferred language including, four regional variations of BSL - from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales - and ISL, in addition to subtitles. This tool will revolutionise access to IT skills development for deaf learners.