Merlin Entertainments, the global leader in branded entertainment destinations, has partnered with SignLive, an innovative provider of sign language services, to enhance accessibility and inclusivity for Deaf and hard of hearing guests in the UK.
Through the SignLive platform, guests to Merlin’s UK attractions will be able to access video interpreting services via mobile devices, including instant access to British Sign Language interpreters (BSL).This partnership demonstrates Merlin’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and providing as many guests as possible with a great day out by ensuring access to on-demand sign language interpretation services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors ahead of their visit.
The partnership will initially be rolled out at Merlin’s renowned attractions within the UK, including LEGOLAND® Windsor, Thorpe Park and Alton Towers Resort as well as others from its iconic Gateway Attractions brand portfolio including the London Eye, Warwick Castle, and SEA LIFE.
Guests interested in utilising the service can access it through the official attraction websites, which will redirect them to the SignLive website, where, guests will be able to log in and connect with a British Sign Language interpreter.
As part of its progress to ensure equitable access to communication for all, Merlin has worked alongside those with lived experience, including the ‘Internal Intelligence Group’, comprising of Merlin colleagues. Andrew Baillie, a Moulder in the Merlin Magic Making division, is one of those colleagues, having himself had hearing loss.
Andrew emphasises the role of SignLive in fostering seamless interactions between individuals with varying hearing abilities and ensuring that no guest feels excluded at Merlin attractions.
He said: “Embracing accessibility is so important and SignLive has been instrumental in granting me newfound independence in my personal and professional life. I take immense pride in contributing to the introduction of this transformative service, which promises to extend its benefits to our guests across the UK who use BSL every day.”
Founder of ThemeParkRM. Spending most of his time at Thorpe Park and loves The Runaway Mine Train at Alton Towers (choo choo!)
