Sign Language Interpreter

1) Background

The Self-Help Plus (SH+) program, is an evidence-based psychosocial support approach designed to strengthen coping skills and reduce psychological distress among adults facing adversity. In Lebanon, SH+ is being delivered as part of broader efforts to expand access to mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), including through digital and audio-based formats that can reach communities at scale.

To promote inclusion, it is essential that SH+ content is accessible to diverse user groups, including persons with hearing/auditory disabilities. While podcast formats can expand reach, they may also create barriers when content is delivered only in audio. Integrating sign language interpretation into SH+ episode outputs is an important accessibility measure that supports equitable access and aligns with principles of rights-based and inclusive programming.

In collaboration with the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) and with IDRAAC as the implementing partner and in coordination with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), the project is undertaking a targeted accessibility enhancement: adapting the five SH+ episodes to include sign language interpretation, synchronized with the episode audio and animation, and delivered in accessible video formats.

To address this need, IDRAAC seeks a qualified Sign Language Interpreter to produce high-quality sign language interpreted versions of the five SH+ episodes, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and technical readiness for dissemination.

2) Objective

The objective of this assignment is to deliver sign language–interpreted video versions of the five SH+ episodes, ensuring accurate interpretation, clear visibility, and synchronization with the audio and animation contents.

3) Scope of Work

The sign language interpreter will be responsible for:

• Reviewing the SH+ scripts/audio and clarifying terminology prior to filming.
• Providing sign language interpretation for all 5 episodes.
• Access to appropriate professional recording setup (or ability to coordinate studio recording if required).
• Synchronizing interpreter video with the episode audio and animation (or coordinating with the editor/animator to do so).
• Participating in review and correction cycles to ensure accuracy and accessibility.
• Advising on best placement based on final format.

4) Key Deliverables

For each of the 5 episodes:

1. Recorded interpreter video (clean footage, stable framing, suitable resolution).
2. Terminology sheet for key mental health terms/sign conventions used.
3. Three rounds of revisions included (re-take or timing corrections as required).

5) Timeline & Level of Effort (indicative)

• Total duration: 4 weeks, depending on filming schedule and integration workflow.

6) Ownership and Usage Rights

All produced material under this assignment will remain the exclusive property of IDRAAC and NMHP. IDRAAC and NMHP retains full and unrestricted rights to use the materials for donor and programmatic reporting, communication and visibility activities, websites, social media platforms, publications, and promotional materials.

The Sigh language Interpreter shall not use, reproduce, publish, distribute, display, modify, or otherwise exploit any of the materials produced under this assignment, whether in whole or in part, for personal, commercial, portfolio, promotional, or any other purposes without prior written authorization from IDRAAC and NMHP.

All materials produced under this assignment shall be treated as confidential and may not be shared with third parties without prior written approval from IDRAAC and NMHP.

7) Coordination & Reporting

The sign language interpreter reports to IDRAAC and attends coordination meetings.

8) Required Qualifications

• Certified/professional sign language interpreter with experience in public-facing media.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting health/psychosocial content (strong advantage).
• Ability to work with scripts, terminology alignment, and revision cycles.
• If providing filming services: access to adequate filming equipment/crew or proven production capacity.

9) Required Qualification and Experience

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Certification or recognized qualification in sign language interpretation
• Proven experience in professional on-camera interpretation
• Strong understanding of accessibility and inclusive communication principles
• Ability to work under tight deadlines
• Access to appropriate professional recording setup (or ability to coordinate studio recording)