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Access to Work Programme: Sign Language

Asked by Mary GlindonLabourDepartment for Work and PensionsTabled Answered 22 October 2025UIN 78161

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what the minimum British Sign Language level required is for communication support workers in his Department.

Answered by Sir Stephen Timms

The minimum BSL sign levels required for DWP communication support workers are:

RSLI (Registered Sign Language Interpreter) has Level 6 BSL and an Interpreting qualification (NVQ or Degree).

TSLI (Trainee Registered Sign Language) has level 6 BSL and is enrolled and working through Interpreting qualification (NVQ or degree).

All interpreters are registered with NRCPD (National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deaf/blind People).

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