Help for deaf people dealing with HMRC
HMRC has announced that they are piloting new services for deaf taxpayers in conjunction with the Royal Association for Deaf People (RAD).
Deaf people who are able to handle their own affairs but cannot speak to HMRC directly can now use video relay with a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter via a webcam. The BSL interpreter will be able to talk directly to an HMRC adviser on the phone to create a three way ‘real time’ conversation.
Taxpayers with hearing problems who have more complex HMRC issues can also sign up to use a new advocacy and advice service provided by RAD. Advisers from RAD will use BSL to communicate with individuals using an online video link and provide advice. If the RAD adviser needs guidance from HMRC to support the deaf taxpayer, they will contact a HMRC adviser. The service is available by appointment only.
Deaf people wanting to use either the video relay or advocacy and advice services can find out more and book an appointment through the joint HMRC/RAD tax help centre. The help centre can be found at royaldeaftax.org.uk/ and includes a range of sign language video resources.