Hybrid events are here to stay. Whether it’s a business conference, public consultation, or training seminar, organisers are increasingly blending in-person and online audiences. But with this opportunity comes a challenge: how do you make a hybrid event truly accessible for everyone?
The answer lies in remote interpreting, ensuring Deaf and hard of hearing participants can engage fully whether they’re in the room or joining virtually.
Why Accessibility is Essential for Hybrid Events
- Legal compliance – The Equality Act 2010 requires “reasonable adjustments” for disabled attendees, which includes providing professional interpreting support.
- Reputation – Hybrid events are often high-profile. An inaccessible event risks reputational damage and exclusion.
- Engagement – Accessibility isn’t a “nice to have”; it allows all voices to be heard, enriching discussion and outcomes.
What is Remote BSL Interpretation?
Remote BSL interpretation means a qualified interpreter joins your hybrid event via a secure online platform (Zoom, Teams, Webex, or custom conferencing software).
They interpret spoken English into British Sign Language and vice versa, so Deaf attendees can participate in real time, wherever they are.
Benefits of Remote Interpreting for Hybrid Events
Flexible Access
- Works seamlessly across live-streamed and in-person sessions.
- Ideal for international or multi-location events.
Cost-Effective
- No travel or accommodation costs for interpreters.
- Quicker to arrange, especially for last-minute bookings.
Scalable
- Support small workshops, large conferences, or multi-day summits.
- Multiple interpreters can be assigned to different breakout rooms
Inclusive Engagement
- Deaf attendees can ask questions, join networking sessions, and access content at the same time as everyone else.
Practical Tips for Organisers
Plan Early
BSL interpreters are in high demand. For longer hybrid sessions, you’ll need at least three interpreters working in rotation to maintain accuracy and prevent fatigue. Make sure those working remotely receive and transmit excellent sound and picture quality and have access to the same visuals or presentation materials being shared on screen at the venue and remotely – this ensures they can interpret effectively and confidently.
Test the Tech
Before the event, test your chosen platform to confirm it supports “pinning” or “spotlighting” interpreters so Deaf attendees can always see them, regardless of the attendee being in the room or watching remotely. Check that the audio and visual feeds are synchronised, and that remote interpreters can see both the speakers and slides clearly.
Camera Angles & Visibility
Ensure any in-person Deaf attendees are captured face-on within a clear camera frame whenever they’re contributing. Interpreters must be able to see them clearly to interpret accurately. Likewise, Deaf attendees should be able to see the interpreters who are working from sign language into spoken language at all times.
Cover Breakouts & Networking
Accessibility doesn’t end when the main session does. Networking sessions, coffee breaks, and informal chats also need to be considered. Depending on your event, you may need one or two interpreters on-site to facilitate communication during these times so Deaf attendees can take part fully in every aspect of your event.
Combine Services
For maximum accessibility, combine remote BSL interpreting with speech-to-text reporting (STTR) for captions. This ensures your event is accessible to Deaf, hard of hearing, and neurodivergent attendees alike.
Case Example: Accessible Hybrid Event Done Right
At a recent corporate AGM, organisers provided:
- Remote BSL interpreters pinned on-screen for virtual attendees.
- On-site screens projecting the interpreter for the live audience.
- STTR captioning alongside BSL.
The result? Deaf attendees reported it was the first AGM they could fully engage with, from voting to Q&A.
Final Thoughts
Making hybrid events accessible isn’t complicated, it’s about planning ahead and partnering with the right professionals. Remote interpreting bridges the gap, ensuring every delegate is included, wherever they are. Need advice on planning your next hybrid event? Contact Interpreting Matters today to arrange remote BSL interpretation.