Sign Language Interpretation & Associated Services (PIN)

Tender description

The Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body (SPCB) is looking for one or more contractors to provide Sign Language Interpretation & Associated Services to the Scottish Parliament. The main requirement is for British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation of some parliamentary business that will be filmed and broadcast live, including debates and the weekly First Minister’s Questions. BSL interpretation will also be required for some events that will be filmed and broadcast live such as Festival of Politics events. In addition, the Scottish Parliament needs in-person interpretation for visitors to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh (including, for example, for meetings, tours and education sessions), though interpretation at other locations may also be required occasionally. Most requirements will be English to BSL interpretation, but other languages or services such as Sign Supported English, Deafblind communication, electronic note-taking and lipspeakers may also be required. There may also be a requirement for video-relay interpretation services. The SPCB may divide this requirement into Lots and are interested in hearing from organisations that can provide either all, or part of, the requirement. Views on the feasibility or otherwise of dividing the requirement into Lots are also welcome. The closing date for noting interest to be included in the market research phase of this project is Friday 27 November 2020. A tender exercise to award a contract for this requirement is anticipated to be issued around March of 2021.