Wales

Transcription services - Accessible Learning and Information Centre (ALIC)

Summary: RNIB Cymru Transcription Centre offers support, advice and bilingual transcription services for all.

• About transcription
• Braille transcription
• Large print transcription
• Audio transcription
• Projects
• Contact ALIC
• Further information

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About transcription

There are currently over 2 million people in the UK with serious sight problems, many of whom cannot read standard size print. These individuals can be reached by producing information in alternative formats, such as braille, large print and audio.

RNIB Cymru’s bilingual transcription team can enable you and your organisation to provide accessible information for all your staff and customers. We work with both public and private sector organisations – providing bespoke transcription services, whether for a frequent requirement, or a one-off document.

This service will help you meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act, 1995.

We can do bilingual transcription into the following formats:

• braille
• large print
• audio
• electronic documents.

What can be transcribed?

In the past we have done transcription of a wide variety of documents such as:

• information brochures, leaflets and flyers
• annual reports
• restaurant menus
• utility bills
• recruitment information packs.

To discuss your requirements, please contact the transcription team.

For all formats, RNIB Cymru transcribes the original document into a master copy, and then produces the required number of copies for your organisation. The master copy is then retained and any future copies can be supplied at your request.

How much does this cost?

The cost of transcription varies dependent on its length and complexity. Please call us to discuss your requirements. We can then provide you with a detailed quotation.

Why choose RNIB Cymru for your transcription?

We will endeavour to:

• identify your needs, and provide a service tailored to these requirements
• offer a cost-effective service and work with you on your timescales
• provide advice and guidance regarding services, allowing you to make informed decisions
• ensure a professional and functional end product.

Braille transcription

Braille is used by blind and partially sighted people to access otherwise inaccessible documents. RNIB Cymru is a leading specialist in the production of English and Welsh braille - transcribing documents into braille, and undertaking a thorough editing, re-formatting, and proof reading procedure.

RNIB Cymru’s specialist braille transcription offers the following:

• grade 1 or 2 braille (Grade 2 is used as standard)
• single or double sided braille
• documents finished on 135 gsm braille paper
• comb binding and braille cover.

Large print transcription

Developing a large print document requires a specialist procedure that includes re-formatting and proof reading of the original document to ensure that the document is accessible.

RNIB Cymru’s specialist large print transcription offers the following:

• documents finished on 100 gsm white paper
• 18pt Arial typeface
• comb binding with cover.

Audio transcription

RNIB Cymru has an expert team working on the production of English and Welsh audio. Producing information in an audio format enables organisations and individuals to communicate with people who cannot read information in standard print.

RNIB Cymru’s specialist audio transcription offers the following:

• state of the art recording and duplication facilities
• contents feature for all audio allowing simple navigation
• on-body printing for all CDs.

Projects

The Transcription Centre undertakes a number of innovative projects to improve the provision of accessible information in Wales.

Welsh language projects

• Production of Welsh braille and large print materials and DAISY books (Digital Accessible Information Systems) for children. This project is supported by ACCAC (Qualifications, Curriculum and Assessment Authority for Wales).
• Production of Welsh braille books for adults, supported by the Welsh Language Board.
• Distance learning provider for Welsh braille course.

GAIN for Wales Big Lottery Fund project

GAIN (Getting Accessible Information Now) was a three-year (2003–2006) accessible information project. This project, led by RNIB Cymru, included training seminars, launching of a website and publishing the Directory of Transcription Providers in Wales.

Other partners include Shaw Trust, Pia, Cardiff Institute for the Blind and North Wales Society for the Blind.

The GAIN for Wales website created by Sequence was shortlisted for a BIMA 2006 award. The awards celebrate and recognise creative excellence and craftsmanship within digital media.

The BIMAs are regarded as the most prestigious new media awards in Europe and they are seen to set the standard for the industry. They are basically the Oscars of the interactive world! The GAIN (Getting Accessible Information Now) for Wales website has been shortlisted in the Achievement in Accessibility category alongside work from other top UK digital agencies. The site exceeds the requirements for WAI (Web Accessibility Initiative) 'Triple A' criteria, the highest level of accessibility a site can have.

Contact ALIC

For more information on RNIB Cymru’s transcription service, please contact the ALIC team on 029 2044 9557 or email at ALICenquiries@rnib.org.uk

Further information

• See it Right guidelines - practical advice on designing, producing and planning for accessible information.
• Back to Accessible Learning and Information Centre homepage.

Content author: alicenquiries@rnib.org.uk

Last updated: 20/11/2008 11:13