A new emergency SMS text service for hearing and speech impaired people was officially launched by Sussex Police on May 6.
The 65999 emergency text number will vastly improve access to the emergency services for those who are unable to use a voice telephone.
The launch of the new text service, which coincides with Deaf Awareness Week, took place at the North Resourcing Centre in Haywards Heath and was attended by Chief Constable Martin Richards.
Those using the new 65999 number simply need to state whether or not the emergency service required is ‘police’, ‘fire’, ‘ambulance’ or ‘coastguard’ by typing the relevant word. They then type details of the nature of the emergency, along with the exact location, and send the message to 65999.
The message is then sent to Sussex Police Control, who deal with the request on behalf of the emergency services. As soon as they receive the text, Police Control reply to confirm that they’ve received the message and may ask more questions.
Chief Superintendent Chris Ambler, Sussex Police Communications Department, said:
"The new 65999 SMS text number means that hearing and speech impaired people will be able to alert the emergency services quickly and effectively, without having to face the problems linked with more conventional methods.
"It’s important that Sussex Police ensures it uses the latest and most convenient means of communication for everybody in our local communities."
Sarah Playforth, Assistant Chief Executive of ESDA (East Sussex Disability Association), said:
"Communication is not only one of the most important issues for public authorities like the police; it is also one of the areas where barriers for D/deaf and Disabled are encountered, so this is a great innovation and one of the ways in which Sussex Police is demonstrating their commitment to implementing their Disability Equality Scheme. East Sussex Disability Association is delighted to have supported Sussex Police from the outset in developing the scheme."
