British Sign Language
Framework Description
NEPO528 British Sign Language is NEPO's solution for BSL interpreting and related communication services, available to all NEPO Associate Members and Member Authorities. It has four lots, covering face-to-face and video link services together or separately, and specialist services. It runs as a pseudo dynamic purchasing system: 13 providers were appointed initially, and new providers can be added each year until it ends on 31 August 2028.
Context & Use Case
Public bodies use NEPO528 to book interpreters and communication professionals for Deaf, deafblind and hard-of-hearing people, choosing face-to-face or video link delivery. Buyers can appoint a provider by direct award based on their own requirements. Fees are split into interpreter fees and provider fees, so buyers can see how much goes to the interpreter and how much to the agency.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: face to face and video link (BSL, speech to text operators, lip speaking) Lot 2: face to face (BSL, speech to text operators, lip speaking) Lot 3: video link (BSL, lip speaking) Lot 4: specialist services (deafblind communication, International Sign, Deaf relay interpreting)
Lots
Lot 1: Face to Face and Video Link; Lot 2: Face to Face; Lot 3: Video Link; Lot 4: Specialist Services
Who Can Apply
Suits BSL interpreting agencies, video interpreting providers and specialist Deaf-led organisations whose interpreters are registered with NRCPD, SRLPDC or RBSLI. Because NEPO528 works as a pseudo DPS, new providers that meet the criteria can be added on an annual basis until 31 August 2028.
Buyer Benefits
Direct award lets a council or health body pick the provider that suits each booking without a mini-competition. Separate interpreter and provider fees make costs transparent and support sustainable pay for interpreters. Requiring registration with recognised bodies gives buyers confidence in interpreter quality, and specialist services such as deafblind communication sit in the same solution.
Next Steps
Register interest on the NEPO Portal and check when the next annual admission round opens. Choose the lots that match your services, and gather evidence of interpreter registration with NRCPD, SRLPDC or RBSLI, your fee structure, booking and quality processes, and feedback from Deaf service users. Admitted providers should keep that evidence current for direct awards.
How Athena Can Help
NEPO528 adds providers each year, so a well-prepared application can get you onto it before 2028. Athena's framework application support helps you choose lots, prepares your policies, registration evidence and case studies, and checks the submission before it goes in.
Our bid writing and quality checks make sure your answers show interpreter registration, safeguarding and Deaf user outcomes clearly, and our advice on public sector tenders covers setting provider fees that win and still pay.
