Learn how a speech-to-text reporter (STTR) can help deaf people and people with hearing loss communicate and how to book one.
If your employee is going to meetings or conferences, an STTR can provide a real-time translation of what’s being said so that they can participate fully.
STTRs help people who are deaf or have hearing loss to access audio information via a laptop or large screen.
The reporter types a verbatim (word for word) account of what is being said and the information appears on screen in real time for users to read.
If your employee is going to meetings or conferences, an STTR can provide a real-time translation of what’s being said so that they can participate fully.
STTRs help people who are deaf or have hearing loss to access audio information via a laptop or large screen.
The reporter types a verbatim (word for word) account of what is being said and the information appears on screen in real time for users to read.
Finding speech-to-text reporters
With over 200 communication support providers in the UK, it’s important to always choose one that only uses registered communication professionals. That way, you can be confident that the communication professional has the relevant qualifications, knowledge, and skills.
If you would like support in choosing a new provider then Action Deafness, the leading deaf-led charity in the UK, and who we have previously partnered with, are our recommended provider. The experienced bookings team at Action Deafness will work with you to facilitate single or repeat appointments and connect you with fully qualified and experienced communication professionals.
To find out more and to make a booking please visit Action Deafness or email [email protected].
How speech-to-text reporting works
STTRs have a special keyboard to type every word spoken phonetically (how the word sounds rather than how it’s spelt).
The phonetic version is then instantly ‘converted’ back into English and then appears on the computer or projected screen.
The resulting text is usually spelt about 95% correctly. The remaining words are spelt roughly how they sound.
Benefits of speech-to-text reporting
Speech-to-text reporting is suitable for people who are comfortable reading English, often at high speed and sometimes for up to a couple of hours at a time.
At large events, information can be projected onto a big screen or several smaller screens around the room.
You will normally only need 1 STTR, but if the event is longer than a few hours, mention this when you make a booking. STTRs should have regular breaks. Remember that there must be a table and access to an electrical socket for the speech-to-text reporting equipment.
STTRs are regulated by the National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People (NRCPD). Registered STTRs must respect confidentiality and stay completely impartial.