Update: National Framework Agreement (NFA)

Transcripts from BSL video:

This week, there BDA received lots of tweets and retweets about the National Framework Agreement (NFA). We know the government will ask companies to bid for new national contract to provide language and translation services including BSL interpreters. We are concerned at the way this is being done, and this week the BDA met senior government officials, and today sent a follow up letter, with a copy to the Minister for Disabled People:

• We repeat that they must remove Level 6 out of the NFA. We will only accept registered qualified BSL interpreters with NRCDP or SASLI.
   
• We want the tender to ensure the NFA safeguards Deaf customers, who are entitled to appropriately qualified registered BSL interpreters, who in turn should be paid competitive fees by the approved contractors. Contractors must not reduce or ignore fair fees in order to maximise profit. This would have a profound effect on quality and standards.

We confirm that we have written to the NUBSLI with key areas and we have offered to work together to campaign / lobby for a fairer and just National Framework Agreement that will benefit both BSL interpreters and Deaf customers.

If you have got any questions or to clarify - please contact British Deaf Association.

Thank you.

David Buxton
Director for Campaigning and Communications