British Sign Language (BSL) is the preferred language of communication for many Deaf people in the UK. It’s a visual language that uses facial expressions, body movements and gestures to convey meaning.
It’s estimated that over 150,000 people use BSL as their primary or preferred language in the UK, and this number includes both Deaf and hearing people who may have learned to sign as part of their work or to communicate better with the Deaf people in their lives.
The Deaf community in the UK has a rich culture and history, with BSL being at its heart. It’s an important part of expressing emotions, thoughts and feelings, which are often difficult to communicate using spoken language alone.
As such, it has become an integral part of life for many members of the Deaf community in the UK.
Can BSL users understand other sign languages?
As with spoken languages, sign language is also used across the world. With over 300 sign languages in use, they vary from nation to nation.
Along with BSL, there are several sign languages used by English-speaking countries, including the US (ASL), Auslan and NZSL. Ireland also has its own sign language (ISL), which is derived from French Sign Language but shares similarities with BSL.
While there may be similarities between each sign language, there is no universal language used by all Deaf people across the globe, just as there is not a universal spoken language.
The history of BSL in the UK
Sign language has been used in the UK for centuries, with early forms documented as early as the 16th Century. Historically, Deaf communities were isolated and dispersed throughout the country, making it difficult for a unified language to emerge.
However, as communities became more connected through schools for the Deaf and social clubs, a distinct form of sign language evolved.
BSL uses a combination of hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning. It is a visual language with its own grammar and syntax.
Despite its long history and cultural significance, BSL was not legally recognised in the UK until relatively recently. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, BSL was officially recognised as a minority language in 2003.
The recognition of BSL as a legitimate language has had a significant impact on the Deaf community in the UK. It has helped raise awareness about the linguistic and cultural diversity of Deaf people and has paved the way for increased accessibility in education, healthcare and public services.
BSL has also become more visible in popular culture, with interpreters appearing on TV and at live events.
The BSL Act 2022 came into place which is a celebratory break through barriers for the Deaf community.
However, there’s still much work to be done to ensure that Deaf people have equal access to services and opportunities, and that their language and cultural rights are fully recognised and respected.
What are the benefits of learning BSL as a hearing person?
Learning British Sign Language as a hearing person opens a whole new world of communication. Not only does it allow you to communicate with Deaf people a lot more easily, but it’s also a great opportunity to help break down the daily communication barriers Deaf people face.
Having a BSL certification under your belt also makes you more desirable to employers and enhances your job prospects. The wider the communication skills a person has, the more attractive they are for a job role. It also means you could become a BSL Interpreter or translator, too – the Deaf community needs more!
BSL makes your brain work harder, but the rewards far outweigh any negatives. You’ll become a more active listener, even when communicating with someone who isn’t Deaf. You’ll begin to pay closer attention to facial expressions and body language which, in turn, will improve your overall communication skills and self confidence, developing personal skills. Promoting equality and diversity, contributing to a greater good.
BSL training & support from Sign Solutions
Here at Sign Solutions, we offer BSL interpreting, translation and consultancy to help make organisations more accessible to Deaf customers and to provide equal opportunities for Deaf job applicants or employees.
Our experienced, DBS-checked, NRCPD-registered interpreters can provide high-quality service across the UK. Additionally, we supply accredited professionals for Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing users.
We also have a number of training programmes available including Deaf Awareness training, BSL courses level 1-3 and more, prices starting at £10.
For further details and advice, please phone 0121 447 9620, email bookings@signsolutions.uk.com, or contact us via a BSL video interpreter using InterpretersLive! via the website or app.
