People and movement
Set up accessible emergency calls
If hearing or speech makes an ordinary phone call difficult, choose an emergency contact method before you need it. The UK has BSL video relay, text relay and registered emergencySMS. They have different setup and connection requirements, so prepare your preferred route and a second option that suits your needs.
Published: Updated:
Last checked: 7 November 2026 How we evaluate sources
Choose your main route
| Route | Who it supports | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| 999 BSL | Deaf British Sign Language users; an interpreter relays the conversation. | The 999 BSL app or website, a suitable camera-enabled device and a good internet connection. No registration is required. |
| Relay UK | People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech difficulty; a relay assistant converts text and speech. | A configured Relay UK app with its required phone and internet connection, or a textphone. Use 18000 for emergencies. |
| emergencySMS | People with hearing or speech difficulties who cannot use another available emergency route. | A mobile number registered in advance and a working SMS service. Text 999; it is slower than voice or text relay. |
Ofcom: text relay (opens in a new tab)Ofcom: emergency video relay (opens in a new tab)Relay UK: emergency contact instructions (opens in a new tab)
Prepare 999 BSL or Relay UK
999 BSL is free and available 24 hours a day. Download the 999 BSL app or bookmark the website. Watch its demonstration without making a test emergency call. During an emergency, open it and use the red call button to reach an interpreter. If a callback is expected, keep the app active or the browser page open.
For Relay UK, install the current app, link your phone number and choose your communication preference using the setup guide. Its emergency instructions explain the 999 button and joining the call. A textphone user dials 18000.
999 BSL: questions and connection requirements (opens in a new tab)999 BSL: how to call (opens in a new tab)Relay UK: app setup (opens in a new tab)
Register for emergencySMS beforehand
- Text the word register to 999.
- Read the complete automatic reply, then text yes.
- Wait for a message confirming successful registration.
- To check registration, text register again. Do not send a pretend emergency.
- Register again if your mobile number changes. If confirmation never arrives, ask your mobile provider whether it supports emergencySMS.
Give the information that gets help to you
For emergencySMS, include police, ambulance, fire or coastguard; what has happened; and the location, including road, town and useful landmarks. Answer follow-up questions.
A delivery report does not confirm that the emergency service has received your message. Wait for its reply. If none arrives after a couple of minutes, use Relay UK on 18000 if possible or ask someone to call 999.
Your accessible-contact checklist
- Keep your chosen app easy to find and your device charged.
- Save your home address and essential communication needs somewhere easy to show or read.
- Choose a backup for failed internet, poor mobile coverage or a flat battery.
- Tell trusted helpers which method you use and where to find instructions.
- Review the setup after changing your phone, number or broadband service.
Common questions
Do I need to register for 999 BSL?
No. You need its app or website and a good internet connection. Registration is required for emergencySMS, which is a separate service.
Can the emergency service call me back through 999 BSL?
Yes. If told to expect a callback, stay by the device and keep the app active or the website open.
Make your next step practical
Keep preparing
Evidence and service information
Sources behind this guidance
We develop our guidance using the sources below. Check the named organisation for current service details, live warnings and local instructions. Sources checked 7 November 2026.
- Contact 999 using Relay UKRelay UK
- Download and set up the appRelay UK
- Frequently asked questions999 BSL
- How to use 999 BSL999 BSL
- Text relay guideOfcom
- Emergency video relayOfcom
- Accessibility of communications servicesOfcom