Latvian Sign Language interpreting

Interpreting for Deaf Latvians at work and in care

Video remote interpreting with an interpreter in Riga works well for short appointments abroad, such as a GP visit, a meeting with an employer or a call with a legal adviser. On-site interpreting is arranged where an interpreter can attend, and longer assignments are covered by two interpreters.

Ask Russian-speaking Deaf people from Latvia whether they prefer Latvian or Russian Sign Language; for legal and medical matters, two interpreters may be needed if a relay through Russian Sign Language is involved. Many Deaf Latvians work elsewhere in Europe, and some have learned the local sign language, so we record each person's preference and book accordingly.

Many Deaf Latvians keep close links with their community at home even when they live abroad. Some prefer interpreters they already know from home; where possible, we take that preference into account, and we always make sure the Deaf person knows who will be interpreting before the appointment.

Written Latvian into signed video

Job contracts, safety rules, health advice and school letters in Latvian or English are recorded in Latvian Sign Language by Deaf translators, and a signed Latvian clip can be written up in Latvian or English. For certified copies of Latvian birth certificates or diplomas, our Latvian translators take over.

For employers with Deaf Latvian staff we can produce a short series of signed induction videos covering shifts, health and safety and workplace contacts.

Captions and transcripts

Latvian, Russian or English captions and transcripts are available for videos and recorded meetings, every file proofread by a human.

For online events and training aimed at Deaf staff, we can show the Latvian Sign Language interpreter in a dedicated window and add Latvian or English captions, so that Deaf participants, hearing colleagues and managers all follow the same session. Recordings can be edited afterwards into short clips for future reference.

Where we can help in Latvian Sign Language

Our vetted, trained and qualified Latvian Sign Language interpreters can support employers, healthcare providers, legal practitioners and schools. Latvian Sign Language bookings are looked after by one SILA Linguists® coordinator; interpreters are vetted, and whether they are based in Riga or nearer to you, they all work under non-disclosure agreements and UK GDPR.