Region of Waterloo enhances accessibility with virtual interpretive services

Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo is enhancing accessibility to its services by launching virtual interpretation.

“Due to COVID-19, many of our services are now offered virtually,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “Enhancing our existing interpretation services will improve accessibility for people with language barriers or hearing disabilities.”

Regional staff already offer telephone access to interpreters in more than 240 languages. With virtual interpretation, the Region can offer additional languages, including American Sign Language and British Sign Language.

“Many clients we serve feel isolated due to language barriers.  Interpretation is crucial to gaining access to the programs and services they need, including financial help,” said Region CAO Bruce Lauckner.  “Going virtual will enable the use of important visual cues, such as body language.”

Virtual interpretation will be offered by LanguageLine Solutions.

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For an interview, please contact:

Bryan Stortz, Director, Corporate Communications
bstortz@regionofwaterloo.ca