Global language service provider, thebigword, has an ongoing commitment to supporting both international and local communities.
The company has donated its brand-new telephone interpreting app, WordSynk, completely free of charge to Servo Group, a Leeds-based multiservice provider that has set up Leeds’ first welfare unit for the homeless.
WordSynk will allow genuine communication between Vulnerable Citizen Support, the charity running the organization unit, and those seeking help who do not speak English. The app allows communication to be established in less than 30 seconds where there is a language barrier.
So far, the use of WordSynk has been of incredible support. The app has recently assisted a Turkish homeless person who spoke limited English. He had lost his passport and struggled to inform the charity of the problem—this was resolved through a 2-minute call to an interpreter via WordSynk, allowing the man to set up meetings with the embassy and gain access to a Bed and Breakfast. WordSynk has also successfully assisted with finding homes for 3 homeless people across Leeds.
Mark Daley, Chief Operating Officer of thebigword, said: “As a global company committed to helping a variety of charities, we thought it would be a fantastic opportunity for us to put our technology towards a more than worthy cause. I really hope it eases situations where communication is difficult.”
Servo Group’s welfare unit provides free access to washing and sanitation facilities, hot food and drinks, and a safe, accessible place to meet and chat. It also serves as a base for homeless people to fill out paperwork and get help from the charity with accessing support and referrals. The welfare unit is out on the streets seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Glen Crosthwaite, Security Professional at Servo Group and Vulnerable Citizen Support, said: “Having free use of the amazing and unique WordSynk app is literally an incredible opportunity. Language barriers are huge and can be the difference between gaining or failing to get the help our homeless friends require.
Communication is vital and one of the most important things we do. This really makes a huge difference in our fight and efforts to help the most destitute and vulnerable people living in our society today, we cannot thank thebigword enough.”
thebigword believes that everyone deserves access to the help they may need and is committed to breaking down the communication barrier and opening up a network of support through its innovative, brand-new technology.
thebigword has participated in various other charitable activities such as Cash for Kids, bake sales for Macmillan Cancer Support, a sky dive for the Allied Forces Foundation, and a sleep out in the parking lot in aid of CentrePoint.
