Sign of success for graduate

She said: “I am a sign language interpreter by trade. My second company Sign Connect launched in November and works with businesses to improve how they deliver information to their customers. I make inclusive videos that have sign language, subtitles and voice overs that work much better for a number of people that are Deaf or disabled consumers.

“Working with the Deaf community is great to see the language and culture as well as the diversity of the community. I approached the Prince’s Trust with an idea that could help. My funding bid was successful and Sign Connect was born.

“Sign Connect is based on a simple principle. Companies produce most of their content in written English, but the average reading age of a deaf adult is eight years old. Companies could however budget to make this information in a more accessible format. I use Deaf presenters to film the information in sign language. I then realised that by adding voiceover and subtitles it actually then expanded the audience to include people with Autism, Dyslexia and even dementia.

“Videos work for people that use sign, that are learning sign, that can’t see, that can’t read, that prefer subtitles or that prefer listening to content. These are stored as QR codes and so companies don’t have to compromise on space but they do drastically alter the amount of people that can now access their information. 

“My aim is that in five years the NHS, DWP and all major providers of compulsory services be expected to distribute their information in this newer more inclusive format. Missed appointments will reduce, feelings of anxiety will lessen and people will have more control over how they receive their content.”