Iranian (Farsi) Sign Language interpreting

Interpreting teams for Deaf Iranians

A common arrangement is a Deaf interpreter or Deaf relay who uses Iranian Sign Language, working with a hearing Farsi interpreter or with a sign language interpreter of the host country. This team approach is especially valuable at asylum interviews, tribunal hearings, solicitors' appointments and mental health assessments, where every detail of a person's account matters. Fingerspelling in Iranian Sign Language represents Farsi letters, so names and places are checked carefully.

Check early whether the Deaf person has also learned the sign language of the country where they now live, for example BSL, as that may change who we book. We provide interpreting on site and by video remote interpreting, allow time for the team to brief together, and can arrange female or male interpreters on request for healthcare and sensitive meetings.

Sign language video translation

Written Farsi is a second language for many Deaf Iranians. We translate important written information into recorded signed video with a Deaf translator, covering appointment letters, rights information, tenancy terms and health guidance, and we translate signed video statements into written English. Iranian identity documents, such as the shenasnameh, are translated and certified by our Farsi team. Signed video should not be confused with the Baghcheban hand alphabet, a system once used in deaf education to represent Farsi sounds; our translators use Iranian Sign Language itself.

Transcripts and captions

We provide written English transcripts and captions of recorded sessions and signed statements, giving legal teams and caseworkers a reliable record. Where the interpreting passed through a Deaf relay and a Farsi interpreter, the record shows which parts needed clarification, so decision makers can see how the account was obtained. Information films for Deaf Iranian audiences can be captioned in English and Farsi.

Sectors we support in Iranian Sign Language

Our vetted, trained and qualified Iranian Sign Language interpreters can support asylum and immigration services, courts and solicitors, healthcare and mental health teams, and social services and housing providers. SILA Linguists® coordinates Deaf and hearing interpreters through one project team, with vetted professionals, signed confidentiality agreements and UK GDPR compliance. Where a case runs over several hearings, we aim to keep the same interpreting team, which builds trust and consistency.