Appeal for sign language experts

According to a charity there are not enough sign language interpreters

An appeal is being launched to find and train sign language interpreters on the Isle of Man as part of National Deaf Awareness Week.

There are no qualified interpreters but it is hoped that people with some experience may come forward to be trained up.

The Isle of Man Hearing Impairment Partnership says there are many deaf or hearing impaired people on the island.

The charity says in areas like law or medicine precise translation is needed.

Peter Cartmell, a spokesperson from the charity said: "If you think of what we expect when we go and see a doctor to find out about a medical problem.

"We expect a good description of what the problem is to make an informed decision about treatment - the standard of sign language needed to convey that is very high."

Mr Cartmell said similar problems happen in the judicial system.

He claims whether someone with hearing difficulties is a victim of crime, wants to make a witness statement or is being prosecuted for an offence, an interpreter is needed.

"Having a fully-fledged sign language interpreter present would be almost mandatory in these situations - and we just don't have enough of them."