Maltese Sign Language (LSM) interpreting

LSM interpreting with discretion

Because Malta is small, the Deaf community is closely connected, and Deaf people may know their interpreter personally. Confidentiality and, where possible, a choice of interpreter are especially important, and we always tell the Deaf person who will be interpreting before the appointment.

Almost all LSM interpreters are based in Malta, so video remote interpreting is the practical option for appointments abroad, such as medical treatment overseas, study or legal meetings. For video appointments, we check the time difference with Malta and test the connection beforehand, as clear picture quality matters for signing. Some Maltese Deaf people also know British Sign Language, and we ask which they prefer. On-site interpreting in Malta and Gozo covers hospital and clinic appointments, courts and legal matters, schools and public services.

Maltese Deaf people abroad for hospital treatment, often far from home, value an interpreter who knows Maltese medical terms and family names, and we plan those assignments with care.

Written Maltese or English into LSM video

We translate written Maltese or English, such as patient information, legal notices, school letters and public service guidance, into recorded LSM video with Deaf translators, and translate signed video into written Maltese or English. Maltese certificates and records are translated and certified by our team.

Since LSM became an official language, public bodies have been expected to provide more information in it, and we help them script and film clear, captioned videos.

Captions and transcripts

We caption videos and recorded meetings in Maltese or English and transcribe signed and spoken content, each file reviewed by a person.

Live events can combine LSM interpreters with real-time captions for hard of hearing participants.

Settings for our linguists in LSM

Our vetted, trained and qualified LSM interpreters can support healthcare providers, legal practitioners, schools and public services. SILA Linguists® coordinates every booking through one project team, works only with vetted interpreters, and protects each session with confidentiality agreements and UK GDPR.