Who is going to #Deaffest 2024? The dates are 10th - 12th May 2024!
#15thedition #15thfestival #anniversary #festival #Wolverhampton
#15thedition #15thfestival #anniversary #festival #Wolverhampton
The Petitions Committee has scheduled a debate about the cost of living crisis and financial support for Deaf and disabled people. They have launched a survey to collect your experiences and views on this topic.
The survey has BSL access: bit.ly/3mPGoTc
The survey has BSL access: bit.ly/3mPGoTc
Keep your eyes peeled on Signature's social media... something special is in the works!
Calling all Year 13 students or undergraduate students interested in pursuing a career in linguistics, psychology, or related fields!
Apply for DCAL's paid internship opportunities and gain valuable research experience in a world-class research centre.
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/.../dcal-paid-internship... #DCALInternship #ResearchExperience #DeafCommunity
Apply for DCAL's paid internship opportunities and gain valuable research experience in a world-class research centre.
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/.../dcal-paid-internship... #DCALInternship #ResearchExperience #DeafCommunity
Here are seven ways to make the workplace deaf accessible:
Embrace technology
Determine what deaf people need as you build an effective workplace. This could be screen magnifiers, refreshable braille, and more. To bring their best selves to work, organisations need to be open to making reasonable adjustments. This includes researching the latest technology that can help make the workplace more inclusive.
Explore outside resources
For instance, a deafblind employee may request a job coach or mobility instructor. In addition, they will not cost your company. Research what’s available in Europe, too to see discover more resources.
Alter your communications
Make it more accessible. If you put cookies in the lunchroom, instead of just leaving a note, send everyone an email. This extends to safety as well. At Zalando, deaf workers are equipped with phones that vibrate and alert them in case of a fire.
Research inclusive communication methods
This could be sign language interpreters, speech-to-text reporters, electronic notetakers, lip speakers, and more. When organisations expand communication methods, deaf workers become enabled and empowered to show up as their full selves.
Bring an interpreter
Ensure workers have full access to information that’s presented at gatherings and presentations which can include social events like team holiday parties.
Review and adjust your recruitment process
Determine how you can improve access to work. Is your website accessible? Is it deaf-friendly? Does it promote inclusivity and encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds?
Conduct deaf awareness training
It’s important for all workers to become more aware of the types of deafness, communication barriers, and how to improve their communication skills. Training will also provide them with increased knowledge and understanding to create a better working environment, one that is inclusive of deaf people. This can also help improve staff morale, loyalty, productivity or customer service.
Key Points
As companies make it a priority to accommodate workplaces for deaf people, they tap into a valuable previously underserved population. If all organisations intentionally create an inclusive workforce, everyone benefits when deaf people work. The data proves it: when companies offer inclusive working environments for employees with deafness and disabilities, as shown by Accenture data, they earn an average of 28% higher revenue, 30% greater economic profit margins, and double the net income of their peers.
Embrace technology
Determine what deaf people need as you build an effective workplace. This could be screen magnifiers, refreshable braille, and more. To bring their best selves to work, organisations need to be open to making reasonable adjustments. This includes researching the latest technology that can help make the workplace more inclusive.
Explore outside resources
For instance, a deafblind employee may request a job coach or mobility instructor. In addition, they will not cost your company. Research what’s available in Europe, too to see discover more resources.
Alter your communications
Make it more accessible. If you put cookies in the lunchroom, instead of just leaving a note, send everyone an email. This extends to safety as well. At Zalando, deaf workers are equipped with phones that vibrate and alert them in case of a fire.
Research inclusive communication methods
This could be sign language interpreters, speech-to-text reporters, electronic notetakers, lip speakers, and more. When organisations expand communication methods, deaf workers become enabled and empowered to show up as their full selves.
Bring an interpreter
Ensure workers have full access to information that’s presented at gatherings and presentations which can include social events like team holiday parties.
Review and adjust your recruitment process
Determine how you can improve access to work. Is your website accessible? Is it deaf-friendly? Does it promote inclusivity and encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds?
Conduct deaf awareness training
It’s important for all workers to become more aware of the types of deafness, communication barriers, and how to improve their communication skills. Training will also provide them with increased knowledge and understanding to create a better working environment, one that is inclusive of deaf people. This can also help improve staff morale, loyalty, productivity or customer service.
Key Points
As companies make it a priority to accommodate workplaces for deaf people, they tap into a valuable previously underserved population. If all organisations intentionally create an inclusive workforce, everyone benefits when deaf people work. The data proves it: when companies offer inclusive working environments for employees with deafness and disabilities, as shown by Accenture data, they earn an average of 28% higher revenue, 30% greater economic profit margins, and double the net income of their peers.
The deaf community is an astonishingly diverse mosaic of ethnicity, class, religion, sexual orientation, and different ways of life.
In a series of intimate portraits and stories, photographer Stephen Iliffe celebrates this rainbow-coloured mosaic.
Next month, 36 Deaf Mosaic portraits will go on display at the OXO Gallery.
Venue: OXO Gallery, Oxo Tower Wharf, London SE1 9PH.
Dates: Weds 15 March to Sunday 19 March 2023, open daily 11am to 6pm.
Admission: Free.
Nearest stations: Waterloo, London Bridge, St Pauls, Blackfriars, Southwark.
For further information:
www.deaf-mosaic.com
In a series of intimate portraits and stories, photographer Stephen Iliffe celebrates this rainbow-coloured mosaic.
Next month, 36 Deaf Mosaic portraits will go on display at the OXO Gallery.
Venue: OXO Gallery, Oxo Tower Wharf, London SE1 9PH.
Dates: Weds 15 March to Sunday 19 March 2023, open daily 11am to 6pm.
Admission: Free.
Nearest stations: Waterloo, London Bridge, St Pauls, Blackfriars, Southwark.
For further information:
www.deaf-mosaic.com
Next week is sign language week!!
This event is being BSL interpreted. Please check out their website for more information:
www.bristolwomensvoice.org.uk
www.bristolwomensvoice.org.uk
A student officer who is learning BSL has formed a new relationship with Staffordshire’s deaf community.
PC Abbie Skevington, who’s been part of the East Staffordshire local policing team enrolled to learn BSL and is encouraging other officers to do the same.
“Learning BSL is such an important way of ensuring we can provide the best possible service to all victims of crime,” said PC Skevington.
“The experiences I’ve had since becoming a PLOD officer (police link officers for deaf people) have been so rewarding. BSL is both a physical and visual language which is a great way of giving victims that initial support and peace of mind in a typically frantic and worrying time. It’s already proven it's worth and I’ve been able to interact with a number of deaf residents in Staffordshire and build a rapport between the force and the wider deaf community.
We’re always looking at ways to diversify and I’m sure that more frontline officers learning BSL would only accelerate this commitment and give us more ways of supporting our communities.”
PC Skevington now hopes to complete the second level of the course and host coffee mornings with the deaf community – where she can give important crime prevention advice and communicate what the police are doing to keep them safe.
Well done Abbie!
PC Abbie Skevington, who’s been part of the East Staffordshire local policing team enrolled to learn BSL and is encouraging other officers to do the same.
“Learning BSL is such an important way of ensuring we can provide the best possible service to all victims of crime,” said PC Skevington.
“The experiences I’ve had since becoming a PLOD officer (police link officers for deaf people) have been so rewarding. BSL is both a physical and visual language which is a great way of giving victims that initial support and peace of mind in a typically frantic and worrying time. It’s already proven it's worth and I’ve been able to interact with a number of deaf residents in Staffordshire and build a rapport between the force and the wider deaf community.
We’re always looking at ways to diversify and I’m sure that more frontline officers learning BSL would only accelerate this commitment and give us more ways of supporting our communities.”
PC Skevington now hopes to complete the second level of the course and host coffee mornings with the deaf community – where she can give important crime prevention advice and communicate what the police are doing to keep them safe.
Well done Abbie!
You may have heard last December that parents from Laycock Primary School in Islington were protesting outside the school against the proposal of specialist staff redundancies.
This school has an unusually large deaf provision serving 13 London boroughs.
A total of 64 children attend, of which 38 have additional needs such as ADHD and autism. Over the last 40 years, students from nursery age up to year 6 have been supported.
As a result of the protest, the school governor's panel has withdrawn the initial plan.
However, parents are not hopeful this plan is permanent and that staffing cuts could be revisited in the future as the school is in a financial deficit.
“We have no confidence in the current headteacher, and chair of the governors and we remain deeply concerned about the future of Laycock under the current leadership.
“It is clear that the plan was to push through the changes under the radar before Christmas. Due to parents’ intervention, the headteacher and governors were forced into a consultation, which led to the restructure being stopped.”
(Parent from Laycock)
A big concern from the parents is that the school failed to consult with deaf education experts or themselves before proposing the staff cuts.
The issue is ongoing and parents are hoping to work closely with Islington Council to ensure the needs of deaf students are protected and remain a priority.
This school has an unusually large deaf provision serving 13 London boroughs.
A total of 64 children attend, of which 38 have additional needs such as ADHD and autism. Over the last 40 years, students from nursery age up to year 6 have been supported.
As a result of the protest, the school governor's panel has withdrawn the initial plan.
However, parents are not hopeful this plan is permanent and that staffing cuts could be revisited in the future as the school is in a financial deficit.
“We have no confidence in the current headteacher, and chair of the governors and we remain deeply concerned about the future of Laycock under the current leadership.
“It is clear that the plan was to push through the changes under the radar before Christmas. Due to parents’ intervention, the headteacher and governors were forced into a consultation, which led to the restructure being stopped.”
(Parent from Laycock)
A big concern from the parents is that the school failed to consult with deaf education experts or themselves before proposing the staff cuts.
The issue is ongoing and parents are hoping to work closely with Islington Council to ensure the needs of deaf students are protected and remain a priority.
In this recent article by The Limping Chicken, deaflympian Oliver Kenny talks about his journey getting into swimming and the swim school he's set up called Kenny Deaf swim school.
"I am so thankful that I’m already in the process of achieving my dream: to create lots of deaf swim schools around the UK with a pathway so that young children with any kind of hearing loss can have opportunities to be educated in life skills. These include being safe in the water, gaining confidence, creating forever friendships and so much more. It also gives young children with hearing loss a chance to potentially become a deaflympian like me."
(Oliver Kenny)
To read more of the article: https://limpingchicken.com/2023/02/23/oliver-kenny-the-deaflympian-achieving-his-dream-to-launch-his-very-own-swim-school-for-young-deaf-swimmers/?fbclid=IwAR3QxMoZZMY8HicBpratLNj73x1Y3dYdKZTrgmnzwmFao983tUaqO8Ezje8
To find out more about Oli and his swim school please email: kennyoliver01@gmail.com
"I am so thankful that I’m already in the process of achieving my dream: to create lots of deaf swim schools around the UK with a pathway so that young children with any kind of hearing loss can have opportunities to be educated in life skills. These include being safe in the water, gaining confidence, creating forever friendships and so much more. It also gives young children with hearing loss a chance to potentially become a deaflympian like me."
(Oliver Kenny)
To read more of the article: https://limpingchicken.com/2023/02/23/oliver-kenny-the-deaflympian-achieving-his-dream-to-launch-his-very-own-swim-school-for-young-deaf-swimmers/?fbclid=IwAR3QxMoZZMY8HicBpratLNj73x1Y3dYdKZTrgmnzwmFao983tUaqO8Ezje8
To find out more about Oli and his swim school please email: kennyoliver01@gmail.com
Living Options are offering to free 6 sessions of accessible counseling to people with a disability and members of the Deaf community (British Sign Language Users) across Devon these sessions will be in Exeter.
What is Counselling?
Counselling is a talking therapy which helps clients to grow a greater awareness of themselves and the world around them. It helps them to understand their feelings in order to deal with issues affecting them in their lives. It provides clients with tools to take forward in their lives and offers them a fresh perspective on events from the past.
Counselling takes place in a safe and confidential space between client and counsellor. The relationship between the two is built on trust and understanding which in turn empowers the client to make positive change in their own lives. It is not advice-giving or directive, change comes from within and is facilitated by the counsellor.
The experience of sitting in a room and being heard by someone who is truly listening is very powerful within itself.
Who can benefit?
Everyone can benefit from counselling at some point in their life.
Often people feel ‘stuck’ because of an issue or an event in their life. Counselling can help to unravel these feelings and provide a sense of clarity and a way to move forward.
A few examples of the kind of issues for which people come to counselling include:
Anxiety/depression
Bereavement/loss
Issues of self esteem
Trauma
Relationship issues
Addiction
If you're potentially interested you can download their leaflet or to make an appointment telephone our friendly Hub team 01392 459 222 email / BSL Facetime: info@livingoptions.org SMS: 07856 426 940
What is Counselling?
Counselling is a talking therapy which helps clients to grow a greater awareness of themselves and the world around them. It helps them to understand their feelings in order to deal with issues affecting them in their lives. It provides clients with tools to take forward in their lives and offers them a fresh perspective on events from the past.
Counselling takes place in a safe and confidential space between client and counsellor. The relationship between the two is built on trust and understanding which in turn empowers the client to make positive change in their own lives. It is not advice-giving or directive, change comes from within and is facilitated by the counsellor.
The experience of sitting in a room and being heard by someone who is truly listening is very powerful within itself.
Who can benefit?
Everyone can benefit from counselling at some point in their life.
Often people feel ‘stuck’ because of an issue or an event in their life. Counselling can help to unravel these feelings and provide a sense of clarity and a way to move forward.
A few examples of the kind of issues for which people come to counselling include:
Anxiety/depression
Bereavement/loss
Issues of self esteem
Trauma
Relationship issues
Addiction
If you're potentially interested you can download their leaflet or to make an appointment telephone our friendly Hub team 01392 459 222 email / BSL Facetime: info@livingoptions.org SMS: 07856 426 940
In the recent article by The Limping Chicken, Martin Anderson explains his role as deaf services manager at Heanor Park care home. (BSL video in the article with transcript).
"I was specifically recruited in January this year to focus on delivering a deaf service to older deaf adults who require personal care or residential support. I’m aware that nationally we do not have this service anywhere apart from a care home on the Isle of Wight. I recognise that the deaf community is in dire need of support for those who are older and require personal care in a residential home."
(Martin Anderson)
https://limpingchicken.com/2023/02/08/martin-anderson-tells-us-about-his-role-as-deaf-services-manager-at-heanor-park-care-home-bsl-vlog-with-transcript/?fbclid=IwAR0kYFEg43eSwSgWpRMAFRWgbe8FJitf6kGuEioLbTPPhZK-MJj9Cg7Oi48
"I was specifically recruited in January this year to focus on delivering a deaf service to older deaf adults who require personal care or residential support. I’m aware that nationally we do not have this service anywhere apart from a care home on the Isle of Wight. I recognise that the deaf community is in dire need of support for those who are older and require personal care in a residential home."
(Martin Anderson)
https://limpingchicken.com/2023/02/08/martin-anderson-tells-us-about-his-role-as-deaf-services-manager-at-heanor-park-care-home-bsl-vlog-with-transcript/?fbclid=IwAR0kYFEg43eSwSgWpRMAFRWgbe8FJitf6kGuEioLbTPPhZK-MJj9Cg7Oi48
BSL book club
Sign between the Lines is a BSL book club that meets regularly here at the Blackwood Bar. In February and March, we will be hosting some 'Meet the Author' workshops
Rizzio by Denise Mina
Thursday 23rd February
7:30pm - 9pm
Boy Friends by Michael Pedersen
Thursday 30th March
7:30pm - 9pm
These workshops are open to everyone and will be BSL/English interpreted.
Sign between the Lines is a BSL book club that meets regularly here at the Blackwood Bar. In February and March, we will be hosting some 'Meet the Author' workshops
Rizzio by Denise Mina
Thursday 23rd February
7:30pm - 9pm
Boy Friends by Michael Pedersen
Thursday 30th March
7:30pm - 9pm
These workshops are open to everyone and will be BSL/English interpreted.
Have you heard of conceptual installation artist Zoe Milner? Zoe is a deaf artist whose latest collection of work 'I talk with my hands' is about her deafness. Zoe hopes to inspire the deaf community, and other disabled people, to express pride in their identity.
"I feel deaf representation is important and this bursary gives me an opportunity to raise awareness. It is important people understand our perspective: the discrimination and audism deaf society faces. I want to expose some of the things people don’t know about my community: deaf education, the history of sign language. I’d like people to learn what deaf culture looks like".
(Zoe Milner)
Dates of event: Until 29 Mar 2023
Mon - Thur
Daily Opening Time: 10:00am - Daily Closing Time: 5:00pm
Venue Address: The Window Gallery, City Arts, 11-13 Hockley, Nottingham, NG1 1FH
Please click on the link for further details:
https://city-arts.org.uk/event/21008/i-talk-with-my-hands/?fbclid=IwAR1Sptu12eim-7YSgrcevk4FtNU5pxPg29Lm31MKBGDtMBqFJcSA7Kv-sxY
"I feel deaf representation is important and this bursary gives me an opportunity to raise awareness. It is important people understand our perspective: the discrimination and audism deaf society faces. I want to expose some of the things people don’t know about my community: deaf education, the history of sign language. I’d like people to learn what deaf culture looks like".
(Zoe Milner)
Dates of event: Until 29 Mar 2023
Mon - Thur
Daily Opening Time: 10:00am - Daily Closing Time: 5:00pm
Venue Address: The Window Gallery, City Arts, 11-13 Hockley, Nottingham, NG1 1FH
Please click on the link for further details:
https://city-arts.org.uk/event/21008/i-talk-with-my-hands/?fbclid=IwAR1Sptu12eim-7YSgrcevk4FtNU5pxPg29Lm31MKBGDtMBqFJcSA7Kv-sxY
Queer Botanical Poetry Reading
Date: Friday 24 February 2023
Time: 7pm to 9pm
Venue: Chelsea Physic Garden
Price: £10
More info/book: https://www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk/.../queer-botanical...
This event will have British Sign Language (BSL) Interpretation by Peter Abraham.
As a part of A Dash of Lavender: Celebrating LGBTQ+ history month with Queer Botany, there will be a poetry reading at Chelsea Physic Garden. Following a long line of creative queers before us, Queer Botany will host a safe creative space to share writings about nature and plants from a queer perspective.
There will be 3 poets, Linden (they/them), Tom McLaughlin (he/him), and SZ Shao (she/her), a host, Bella Cox (she/they), an open mic, and time to mingle. You can participate to the Open mic by completing the sign up sheet provided at the event. Open mic participants will be called by order of sign up and can read 1 piece of 2 minutes or under.
The Physic Garden Café will be open for drinks and light bites.
Doors open from 6:30pm, event starts at 7pm.
Tickets are £10 per person.
Accessibility: This event will take place in our first floor ‘Gallery’, unfortunately this space is not wheelchair accessible. Please email enquiries@chesleaphysicgarden.co.uk if you would like to discuss accessibility.
Did you know that bilingual toddlers have a heightened attention to faces compared to monolinguals? This fascinating finding by Victoria Mousley has us wondering if this effect could be even more pronounced in deaf babies. Let's wait and see what future research brings!
#Bilingualism #ChildDevelopment #deafbabies
For more fascinating information linked to this subject and others, check out Deafness Cognition and Language (DCAL) Research Centre's Facebook page DCAL (Deafness, Cognition and Language Research Centre)
#Bilingualism #ChildDevelopment #deafbabies
For more fascinating information linked to this subject and others, check out Deafness Cognition and Language (DCAL) Research Centre's Facebook page DCAL (Deafness, Cognition and Language Research Centre)
On the 15th March 2023 Signature, in partnership with BDA, is inviting primary schools across the country to take part in the UK’s largest online BSL lesson as part of Sign Language Week.
The online lesson gives schools the opportunity to learn BSL from a qualified Deaf teacher and to see how their students enjoy the experience. As BSL is a visual and spatial language, language learning is different! Learning BSL will enhance vocabulary, spelling, and understanding of language and build inclusivity in the classroom while improving learning for all.
Primary schools that already deliver BSL have seen a rapid growth in their children’s confidence to use BSL to communicate not only within the school but also within the community.
The BSL lesson will be held online on Wednesday 15 March 2023 from 10am – 10:30am. It will also be available to view online after that date to use with future classes.
The lesson will be part of the Sign Language Week celebration, which takes place from 13th to 19th March 2023. Sign Language Week is run on an annual basis by the BDA. The theme of this year’s campaign will be “Protecting BSL”.
Schools who are interested in signing up for the lesson can do so by visiting:
www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/BSL_lesson
The online lesson gives schools the opportunity to learn BSL from a qualified Deaf teacher and to see how their students enjoy the experience. As BSL is a visual and spatial language, language learning is different! Learning BSL will enhance vocabulary, spelling, and understanding of language and build inclusivity in the classroom while improving learning for all.
Primary schools that already deliver BSL have seen a rapid growth in their children’s confidence to use BSL to communicate not only within the school but also within the community.
The BSL lesson will be held online on Wednesday 15 March 2023 from 10am – 10:30am. It will also be available to view online after that date to use with future classes.
The lesson will be part of the Sign Language Week celebration, which takes place from 13th to 19th March 2023. Sign Language Week is run on an annual basis by the BDA. The theme of this year’s campaign will be “Protecting BSL”.
Schools who are interested in signing up for the lesson can do so by visiting:
www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/BSL_lesson
Have you guys checked out BSL Zone's new program Food Fighters?
In this children's cookery series, presented by Marios Costi and chef Coco Briden, four children do two challenges to impress the judges!
This fun series encourages kids to improve and learn new cooking skills.
The theme for the first episode is 'Dishes of the World' to allow the children to express their creativity and ethnicity. In the second episode, guest judge Nadia Nadarajah visits, and the theme is 'Zero Waste'.
In the third episode guest judge, Leah Michaelides visits the studio. The theme of this episode is "Plant Based Food". Who will get through to the quarter-finals and compete with the winners from previous episodes?
The next episode is available online 30th of January.
Check out the episodes here: https://www.bslzone.co.uk/watch/food-fighters-series-1/food-fighters-episode-1
In this children's cookery series, presented by Marios Costi and chef Coco Briden, four children do two challenges to impress the judges!
This fun series encourages kids to improve and learn new cooking skills.
The theme for the first episode is 'Dishes of the World' to allow the children to express their creativity and ethnicity. In the second episode, guest judge Nadia Nadarajah visits, and the theme is 'Zero Waste'.
In the third episode guest judge, Leah Michaelides visits the studio. The theme of this episode is "Plant Based Food". Who will get through to the quarter-finals and compete with the winners from previous episodes?
The next episode is available online 30th of January.
Check out the episodes here: https://www.bslzone.co.uk/watch/food-fighters-series-1/food-fighters-episode-1
Ruth Montgomery is an artist and creative you need to know about!
Ruth is a deaf professional musician, teacher, workshop facilitator and visionary artist. As a classical trained musician with a passion for modern works, she also explores art, sign language, and visual media within the Deaf Community and features them in her current project titled Audiovisability. As a result this has led her to secure a place on the Clore Leadership Fellowship programme in 2018 – 2019. In March this year Ruth was a winner of the Francesca Hanley inspriation award at the Music and Drama Education evening in Central London for her services to music and Audiovisability projects.
Unfazed by her deafness, Ruth pursued a career in the field of music. She was given the opportunity to perform with some of the world’s best orchestras as a soloist playing the Danzi Concerto with the Royal Philharmonic in London at Cadogan Hall and the Russian National Orchestra in Moscow and St Petersburg with the Music of Life Foundation, and with Dame Evelyn Glennie as a guest Soloist. Ruth’s musical experiences in Russia and London was filmed and shown on BBC See Hear (2006) as “Music Has No Bars” with British Sign Language (BSL).
Her passion in life is to continue with flute performing, write blog posts on any music related topics with other Deaf artists in the community, spread knowledge, experience and expertise as a musician, artist, teacher and workshop leader.
You can check out her website here: https://www.ruthmontgomery.co.uk/
Ruth is a deaf professional musician, teacher, workshop facilitator and visionary artist. As a classical trained musician with a passion for modern works, she also explores art, sign language, and visual media within the Deaf Community and features them in her current project titled Audiovisability. As a result this has led her to secure a place on the Clore Leadership Fellowship programme in 2018 – 2019. In March this year Ruth was a winner of the Francesca Hanley inspriation award at the Music and Drama Education evening in Central London for her services to music and Audiovisability projects.
Unfazed by her deafness, Ruth pursued a career in the field of music. She was given the opportunity to perform with some of the world’s best orchestras as a soloist playing the Danzi Concerto with the Royal Philharmonic in London at Cadogan Hall and the Russian National Orchestra in Moscow and St Petersburg with the Music of Life Foundation, and with Dame Evelyn Glennie as a guest Soloist. Ruth’s musical experiences in Russia and London was filmed and shown on BBC See Hear (2006) as “Music Has No Bars” with British Sign Language (BSL).
Her passion in life is to continue with flute performing, write blog posts on any music related topics with other Deaf artists in the community, spread knowledge, experience and expertise as a musician, artist, teacher and workshop leader.
You can check out her website here: https://www.ruthmontgomery.co.uk/
𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: 𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯
Because no parent should have to pay to learn to communicate with their child, please consider supporting Katie Littlejohns' petition.
Katie's baby boy, Alvie, is moderately deaf, and they have chosen to learn British Sign Language (BSL).
She considers that it's vital that deaf children are not left behind because their families cannot afford to learn to communicate with them. "Hearing Aids are amazing, but they are not always effective", she said.
She's started a petition asking the Government to fund free and easy BSL courses for parents of deaf children - Along with so many others, adults who have late hearing loss also need free access to BSL.
Please, sign and help promote:
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/623900
Because no parent should have to pay to learn to communicate with their child, please consider supporting Katie Littlejohns' petition.
Katie's baby boy, Alvie, is moderately deaf, and they have chosen to learn British Sign Language (BSL).
She considers that it's vital that deaf children are not left behind because their families cannot afford to learn to communicate with them. "Hearing Aids are amazing, but they are not always effective", she said.
She's started a petition asking the Government to fund free and easy BSL courses for parents of deaf children - Along with so many others, adults who have late hearing loss also need free access to BSL.
Please, sign and help promote:
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/623900
"For deaf readers of this article, it must seem strange that these 4 things have been a revelation to me when they are probably so obvious to you. I hope that our society changes so that the hearing community becomes more familiar with and appreciative of the Deaf community, but right now, most hearing parents simply don’t know these basic things – not through arrogance, but just plain ignorance.
I feel really passionately that hearing parents of deaf children should have access to the deaf community early on in their journey to demystify deafness and make the journey one of optimism rather than worry.
So from the scared parent sat in the audiology office 18 months ago to now, how does it feel to be a more informed hearing parent of a deaf child? Without wishing to sound trite, I feel proud. He’s amazing."
Check out The Limping Chicken's brilliant new article about Tess Torjussen's experience with having a deaf son and how important it is to demystify deafness:
https://limpingchicken.com/2023/01/23/tess-torjussen-its-important-to-demystify-deafness-for-hearing-parents-bsl/?fbclid=IwAR1SSK0X8luag5OERQ5aqGo6y5wqxC8_kyPIyeS3IHA1NlvHbx57OPu12BY
I feel really passionately that hearing parents of deaf children should have access to the deaf community early on in their journey to demystify deafness and make the journey one of optimism rather than worry.
So from the scared parent sat in the audiology office 18 months ago to now, how does it feel to be a more informed hearing parent of a deaf child? Without wishing to sound trite, I feel proud. He’s amazing."
Check out The Limping Chicken's brilliant new article about Tess Torjussen's experience with having a deaf son and how important it is to demystify deafness:
https://limpingchicken.com/2023/01/23/tess-torjussen-its-important-to-demystify-deafness-for-hearing-parents-bsl/?fbclid=IwAR1SSK0X8luag5OERQ5aqGo6y5wqxC8_kyPIyeS3IHA1NlvHbx57OPu12BY
Charlie Swinbourne is an award-winning writer, who created one of our favourite blog websites www.limpingchicken.com
Charlie draws on what he has learned over the years to inspire his work including a special episode of the BBC drama Casualty about a day in the life of a deaf nurse that saw him honoured with BAFTA and Royal Television Society awards.
In a recent interview Charlie said:
"When I was growing up in the deaf community, I didn’t know people doing the work I am doing now. I’d have been blown away to have imagined doing the things I have done. I feel very privileged and lucky to have reached this position, to have achieved the recognition and awards I have.
The most important thing for me has been to represent my community in a responsible way and in a positive way. There are so many talented deaf actors who are really under the radar, Matt Kirby among them, and I want them to get the same recognition I have.”
Charlie draws on what he has learned over the years to inspire his work including a special episode of the BBC drama Casualty about a day in the life of a deaf nurse that saw him honoured with BAFTA and Royal Television Society awards.
In a recent interview Charlie said:
"When I was growing up in the deaf community, I didn’t know people doing the work I am doing now. I’d have been blown away to have imagined doing the things I have done. I feel very privileged and lucky to have reached this position, to have achieved the recognition and awards I have.
The most important thing for me has been to represent my community in a responsible way and in a positive way. There are so many talented deaf actors who are really under the radar, Matt Kirby among them, and I want them to get the same recognition I have.”
Are you heading to the BSL conference 2023 in March?
The Government has stated they are committed to the roll-out of the BSL Act and are recruiting Deaf people and BSL signers to serve on the BSL Advisory Board to support the implementation and roll-out of the Act.
The British Deaf Association (BDA) are proud to have successfully campaigned for a BSL Act through the coalition of a BSL Act Now core group of organisations and volunteers. Now we have a BSL Act, what happens next?
Never has there been a better time for us to come together to work together to discuss how the Government and public authorities consult with the Deaf community to ensure they are fulfilling their legal obligations.
The Conference will take place at Leonardo Royal London City, 8-14 Cooper’s Row, London, EC3N 2BQ.
For more information and for tickets please see the link below:
https://bda.org.uk/bsl-conference-2023/?fbclid=IwAR0Px9ZHYTvtIurf1pgELKjoyMb6SauDslpZqfNtmkkGcgREorEH5T9UxyE
The Government has stated they are committed to the roll-out of the BSL Act and are recruiting Deaf people and BSL signers to serve on the BSL Advisory Board to support the implementation and roll-out of the Act.
The British Deaf Association (BDA) are proud to have successfully campaigned for a BSL Act through the coalition of a BSL Act Now core group of organisations and volunteers. Now we have a BSL Act, what happens next?
Never has there been a better time for us to come together to work together to discuss how the Government and public authorities consult with the Deaf community to ensure they are fulfilling their legal obligations.
The Conference will take place at Leonardo Royal London City, 8-14 Cooper’s Row, London, EC3N 2BQ.
For more information and for tickets please see the link below:
https://bda.org.uk/bsl-conference-2023/?fbclid=IwAR0Px9ZHYTvtIurf1pgELKjoyMb6SauDslpZqfNtmkkGcgREorEH5T9UxyE
'If children are taught one or more language during secondary education, then why is British Sign Language excluded?
According to the statistics, British Sign Language (BSL) is the preferred language of over 120,000 Deaf adults and about 20,000 children in the UK for whom English may be a second or third language.
And despite the fact that BSL usage is growing, only a very small percentage of police officers, doctors, nurses, etc... have even a basic understanding of the language and an ability to use it at a conversational level.
For deaf people living in Britain, the world can be an incredibly lonely place, and this gap could be bridged by simply introducing BSL into the National Curriculum.
That is why the British Deaf Association are working with , Signature and the British Association of Teachers of Deaf Children and Young People to support the launch of a GCSE qualification in British Sign Language.
This is where you come in! They need to know how much interest there is in BSL at GCSE level; how many students would like to study it, and which schools would like to offer it.
So, whether you are deaf or hearing, a parent, a young person, or a teacher, present or past, please show your support for a BSL GCSE by completing the short survey below:'
Survey:
https://cypteam.typeform.com/to/dBlrgAQN
According to the statistics, British Sign Language (BSL) is the preferred language of over 120,000 Deaf adults and about 20,000 children in the UK for whom English may be a second or third language.
And despite the fact that BSL usage is growing, only a very small percentage of police officers, doctors, nurses, etc... have even a basic understanding of the language and an ability to use it at a conversational level.
For deaf people living in Britain, the world can be an incredibly lonely place, and this gap could be bridged by simply introducing BSL into the National Curriculum.
That is why the British Deaf Association are working with , Signature and the British Association of Teachers of Deaf Children and Young People to support the launch of a GCSE qualification in British Sign Language.
This is where you come in! They need to know how much interest there is in BSL at GCSE level; how many students would like to study it, and which schools would like to offer it.
So, whether you are deaf or hearing, a parent, a young person, or a teacher, present or past, please show your support for a BSL GCSE by completing the short survey below:'
Survey:
https://cypteam.typeform.com/to/dBlrgAQN
Have you heard of Julie Beckett?
She is a deaf veterinary nurse and BSL user. Julie has been working in the veterinary industry for 17 years.
Not only does she work in a veterinary practice, but she also does talks to schools, youth clubs, and deaf clubs.
Julie has set up her own Facebook page called Pet Health and Tips in BSL where she shares vlogs in BSL with animal advice.
To receive her updates and advice check out her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/PetTipsBSL
She is a deaf veterinary nurse and BSL user. Julie has been working in the veterinary industry for 17 years.
Not only does she work in a veterinary practice, but she also does talks to schools, youth clubs, and deaf clubs.
Julie has set up her own Facebook page called Pet Health and Tips in BSL where she shares vlogs in BSL with animal advice.
To receive her updates and advice check out her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/PetTipsBSL
ITV welcomed Yvonne Cobb back in the studio to make her amazing coconut, lentil & spinach soup with homemade flatbreads.
"Last year we made history for the deaf community when Yvonne Cobb stepped into the kitchen to present the cookery item using British sign language. Today she's back again to treat us to a radiant coconut, lentil & spinach soup with homemade flat breads. It's ultra-creamy and packed to the brim with smoky flavour and spices, this soup is the perfect combination of ingredients for the cosiest month of the year!"
(ITV)
To watch the BSL clip below you'll need an ITV account. To watch :
https://www.itv.com/thismorning/articles/yvonne-cobbs-winter-warming-soup-with-british-sign-language?fbclid=IwAR1DLiZEkpEPI-phFyQhL26HTBdw_hQ3IS0Htd6c5iqA2RZZcuh-qHvE1tE
"Last year we made history for the deaf community when Yvonne Cobb stepped into the kitchen to present the cookery item using British sign language. Today she's back again to treat us to a radiant coconut, lentil & spinach soup with homemade flat breads. It's ultra-creamy and packed to the brim with smoky flavour and spices, this soup is the perfect combination of ingredients for the cosiest month of the year!"
(ITV)
To watch the BSL clip below you'll need an ITV account. To watch :
https://www.itv.com/thismorning/articles/yvonne-cobbs-winter-warming-soup-with-british-sign-language?fbclid=IwAR1DLiZEkpEPI-phFyQhL26HTBdw_hQ3IS0Htd6c5iqA2RZZcuh-qHvE1tE
We love See Hear!
In this latest episode of See Hear the team heads to Edinburgh, with William Grint visiting the largest arts festival in the world, the Edinburgh Fringe. Along the way, William meets Phillip Gerrard from Deaf Action to discover how they are working alongside the Fringe to create a unique festival, the Edinburgh Deaf Festival, celebrating deaf culture, language and heritage.
With Scotland’s breathtaking hills and beautiful coastline within an hour’s reach of the city, William joins wild camping expert Ross Grant as they take a walk on the wild side in the ancient Pentland Hills to the south west of the city. And his final stop is the beautiful coastal town of North Berwick, where he's joined by enthusiastic sea kayaker Natalie Greenall for a sea kayaking adventure.
To check out their latest episode you'll need a BBC iPlayer account. You can watch it here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001grd8/see-hear-series-42-11-on-tour-edinburgh
In this latest episode of See Hear the team heads to Edinburgh, with William Grint visiting the largest arts festival in the world, the Edinburgh Fringe. Along the way, William meets Phillip Gerrard from Deaf Action to discover how they are working alongside the Fringe to create a unique festival, the Edinburgh Deaf Festival, celebrating deaf culture, language and heritage.
With Scotland’s breathtaking hills and beautiful coastline within an hour’s reach of the city, William joins wild camping expert Ross Grant as they take a walk on the wild side in the ancient Pentland Hills to the south west of the city. And his final stop is the beautiful coastal town of North Berwick, where he's joined by enthusiastic sea kayaker Natalie Greenall for a sea kayaking adventure.
To check out their latest episode you'll need a BBC iPlayer account. You can watch it here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001grd8/see-hear-series-42-11-on-tour-edinburgh
Shedding light on the entertainment industry, Meg Strahle asks: how can we create more inclusive events and experiences?
"I’ve spoken with many d/Deaf people who have said they don’t have a support system to ensure they are included and welcome at events. Pre-pandemic, I was often refused a sign-language interpreter or reserved seating to be closer to the stage, citing budget or ‘first-come-first-served’.
With my Cochlear implant and my ability to lip-read I can get by at events, but it requires ample lighting, carpeting, and good acoustics. What about those who don’t have the same abilities?"
Check out this brilliant article:
https://www.thedrum.com/opinion/2023/01/10/i-m-deaf-it-s-the-event-industry-can-t-hear-how-do-we-make-it-more-inclusive?fbclid=IwAR1olHR3WMQiKYDcllMc_QvfcBCxRo798Ja5X_2V32r_CF73xbiyBuNDO7E
"I’ve spoken with many d/Deaf people who have said they don’t have a support system to ensure they are included and welcome at events. Pre-pandemic, I was often refused a sign-language interpreter or reserved seating to be closer to the stage, citing budget or ‘first-come-first-served’.
With my Cochlear implant and my ability to lip-read I can get by at events, but it requires ample lighting, carpeting, and good acoustics. What about those who don’t have the same abilities?"
Check out this brilliant article:
https://www.thedrum.com/opinion/2023/01/10/i-m-deaf-it-s-the-event-industry-can-t-hear-how-do-we-make-it-more-inclusive?fbclid=IwAR1olHR3WMQiKYDcllMc_QvfcBCxRo798Ja5X_2V32r_CF73xbiyBuNDO7E
Labour MP, Lilian Greenwood for Nottingham South and chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Deafness, confirmed on Wednesday that she will table a Parliamentary question asking the UK Government why it failed to provide a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter for the Prime Minister’s first speech of 2023.
In a recent speech the Conservative Party leader and former chancellor made some huge statements claiming his commitment to the public.
‘Where Is The Interpreter’ campaign founder Lynn Stewart-Taylor said: “How can you [talk about] priorities and building a better future for the UK if you do not include your BSL citizens?
“Your priorities are my priorities. Really?”
Ms Greenwood tweeted : “Less than a year since the BSL Act became law and the Government is still failing to make supposedly important communications accessible to thousands of deaf people.”
Lyme Bay BSL will keep you updated with further developments of Lilian's meeting in the Commons.
In a recent speech the Conservative Party leader and former chancellor made some huge statements claiming his commitment to the public.
‘Where Is The Interpreter’ campaign founder Lynn Stewart-Taylor said: “How can you [talk about] priorities and building a better future for the UK if you do not include your BSL citizens?
“Your priorities are my priorities. Really?”
Ms Greenwood tweeted : “Less than a year since the BSL Act became law and the Government is still failing to make supposedly important communications accessible to thousands of deaf people.”
Lyme Bay BSL will keep you updated with further developments of Lilian's meeting in the Commons.
In a recent Guardian article Natasha May interviews Abigail Poulton and her mother Lesley Sheldon on Abigail's CODA (child of deaf adult) experience.
“It’s society at large who imposes those barriers,” he says. “That’s where the barriers come from, not from the individuals who face them, and I think Mum demonstrated that to me.”
Check out this lovely article below:
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jan/04/telling-signs-what-children-born-to-deaf-parents-learn-earlier-than-most
“It’s society at large who imposes those barriers,” he says. “That’s where the barriers come from, not from the individuals who face them, and I think Mum demonstrated that to me.”
Check out this lovely article below:
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jan/04/telling-signs-what-children-born-to-deaf-parents-learn-earlier-than-most
BT Sport has announced Sign Up, an initiative to raise the profile of the deaf community in sport.
26th December starts the launch of BT Sport’s British Sign Language content.
The series has a range of exciting and educational content featuring Premier League players and managers.
Broadcasted in January 2023, Deaf brothers Marios and Memnos Costi take viewers along as they visit some of the biggest sporting events in the UK including rugby, football, and track cycling.
In February Sign Up will provide two BSL commentators or presenters with a first-of-its-kind opportunity to train up with BT Sport so that they can sign at some of the biggest BT Sport football games next season, including the FA Disability Cup 2023.
Exciting stuff!
Jamie Hindhaugh, head of BT Sport, said: “Sport should be for everybody and there should be no barriers stopping anyone from accessing it. At BT Sport, with the help of our partners, we’re taking steps to provide better accessibility in sport through Sign Up. Through New Signing, Deaf Away Days and our BSL Alphabet campaigns, we aim to help our deaf viewers enjoy sport more than ever and help raise awareness.”
26th December starts the launch of BT Sport’s British Sign Language content.
The series has a range of exciting and educational content featuring Premier League players and managers.
Broadcasted in January 2023, Deaf brothers Marios and Memnos Costi take viewers along as they visit some of the biggest sporting events in the UK including rugby, football, and track cycling.
In February Sign Up will provide two BSL commentators or presenters with a first-of-its-kind opportunity to train up with BT Sport so that they can sign at some of the biggest BT Sport football games next season, including the FA Disability Cup 2023.
Exciting stuff!
Jamie Hindhaugh, head of BT Sport, said: “Sport should be for everybody and there should be no barriers stopping anyone from accessing it. At BT Sport, with the help of our partners, we’re taking steps to provide better accessibility in sport through Sign Up. Through New Signing, Deaf Away Days and our BSL Alphabet campaigns, we aim to help our deaf viewers enjoy sport more than ever and help raise awareness.”
"For us deaf people, Christmas can mean feeling left out, even as everyone around us seems to be having a wonderful time.
Christmas dinner, carol singing, the King’s speech on telly, young children, combined with too much alcohol can make Christmas a very un-deaf friendly day indeed.
But never fear, a bit of deaf awareness and preparation can make all the difference.
Without further ado, here is my list of festive tips to help deaf people feel included at Christmas!"
(Charlie Swinbourne)
In the latest article by The Limping Chicken, Charlie gives 12 tips for including Deaf people at Christmas. This is such an important topic and Charlie does a great job providing really educational information with some fun illustrations. There is a BSL translation available in this article.
https://limpingchicken.com/2022/12/19/charlie-swinbourne-12-tips-for-including-deaf-people-at-christmas-bsl/?fbclid=IwAR2eeDeO-Nhujt7iVYugGR9vk0SX8Q38eJ3gNJG7SGzYBGzyHGFMYLXrX0U
Christmas dinner, carol singing, the King’s speech on telly, young children, combined with too much alcohol can make Christmas a very un-deaf friendly day indeed.
But never fear, a bit of deaf awareness and preparation can make all the difference.
Without further ado, here is my list of festive tips to help deaf people feel included at Christmas!"
(Charlie Swinbourne)
In the latest article by The Limping Chicken, Charlie gives 12 tips for including Deaf people at Christmas. This is such an important topic and Charlie does a great job providing really educational information with some fun illustrations. There is a BSL translation available in this article.
https://limpingchicken.com/2022/12/19/charlie-swinbourne-12-tips-for-including-deaf-people-at-christmas-bsl/?fbclid=IwAR2eeDeO-Nhujt7iVYugGR9vk0SX8Q38eJ3gNJG7SGzYBGzyHGFMYLXrX0U
Christmas is coming... give our BSL word search a go!
A fully signed version of Newsround is available to watch every weekday for children who use British Sign Language.
Press the Play icon to catch up on all the latest news from around the world.
Press the Play icon to catch up on all the latest news from around the world.
Ray Bradshaw became the first comedian to perform in both spoken English and British Sign Language (BSL) with his 2018 show, Deaf Comedy Fam. What had started out three years before as an attempt to make his comedy more accessible for his parents ended up being a first experience of live stand-up for more than 800 people.
In spring 2023 Ray is going to kick off a national tour of his new show, Deaf Com 1. Performing it in both English and BSL is no easy task.
‘You lose puns and wordplay, and jokes become a bit more visual. You end up acting out jokes a bit more, which works but it’s something I never would have done before. You also get really comfortable with silence,’ he laughs.
Ray's shows have not just been accessible but also hugely successful.
‘After one Edinburgh show a woman came to thank me because it had been the first time she’d been able to see a signed comedy show on any day of the week; usually there’s just one interpreted performance and if you can’t get to that you miss out,’ he recalls.
He had planned to do the bilingual shows for a couple of years, but wanted to get it right. ‘I didn’t want to rush into it,’ he says. ‘For me this was personal, so I wanted to make it good. It’s my culture and heritage, and it’s something I’m very proud of.’
Ray is touring Deaf Com 1 from February 9 to April 14, 2023. For more information on tickets and prices, please visit: raybradshaw.com
In spring 2023 Ray is going to kick off a national tour of his new show, Deaf Com 1. Performing it in both English and BSL is no easy task.
‘You lose puns and wordplay, and jokes become a bit more visual. You end up acting out jokes a bit more, which works but it’s something I never would have done before. You also get really comfortable with silence,’ he laughs.
Ray's shows have not just been accessible but also hugely successful.
‘After one Edinburgh show a woman came to thank me because it had been the first time she’d been able to see a signed comedy show on any day of the week; usually there’s just one interpreted performance and if you can’t get to that you miss out,’ he recalls.
He had planned to do the bilingual shows for a couple of years, but wanted to get it right. ‘I didn’t want to rush into it,’ he says. ‘For me this was personal, so I wanted to make it good. It’s my culture and heritage, and it’s something I’m very proud of.’
Ray is touring Deaf Com 1 from February 9 to April 14, 2023. For more information on tickets and prices, please visit: raybradshaw.com
Parents of deaf pupils have staged a protest over planned cuts at their north London primary school, which they say will target the most vulnerable children and disproportionately affect their education.
Martin Thacker, the deputy director for local engagement at the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS), said: “This is a potentially devastating blow for the deaf children attending this school, as well as those who may attend in the future.
“If schools are prioritising balancing the books over providing deaf children with the support they need, something has gone very wrong. It’s vital that deaf children and young people get the support they need in school. Without it, they risk falling further behind their peers, left to struggle on alone.”
An Islington council spokesperson said Laycock, like many schools across the country, was responding to financial pressures. “The current consultation with staff has been agreed by the governing body, and all feedback will be carefully considered. Once the consultation has concluded, parents and guardians will be contacted by the school to inform them of their decisions.”
The consultation with staff has been extended to 20 January to allow sufficient time to provide feedback. Parents will be invited to a meeting where they can give their views and a working group has been set up including deaf specialists and service users to “ensure high-quality education continues to be provided”.
Lyme Bay BSL will keep you updated in January 2023 of the outcome of the meeting.
Martin Thacker, the deputy director for local engagement at the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS), said: “This is a potentially devastating blow for the deaf children attending this school, as well as those who may attend in the future.
“If schools are prioritising balancing the books over providing deaf children with the support they need, something has gone very wrong. It’s vital that deaf children and young people get the support they need in school. Without it, they risk falling further behind their peers, left to struggle on alone.”
An Islington council spokesperson said Laycock, like many schools across the country, was responding to financial pressures. “The current consultation with staff has been agreed by the governing body, and all feedback will be carefully considered. Once the consultation has concluded, parents and guardians will be contacted by the school to inform them of their decisions.”
The consultation with staff has been extended to 20 January to allow sufficient time to provide feedback. Parents will be invited to a meeting where they can give their views and a working group has been set up including deaf specialists and service users to “ensure high-quality education continues to be provided”.
Lyme Bay BSL will keep you updated in January 2023 of the outcome of the meeting.
A portion of our students start their signing journey with us so they can become interpreters.
NRCPD regulates communication professionals that work with deaf and deafblind people.
Interested in becoming a qualified and registered Sign Language Interpreter with NRCPD?
You will need to undertake one of their Approved Interpreting Courses, as well as holding a recognised BSL Level 6 qualification.
Their approved interpreting courses are:
- Wolverhampton MA Interpreting. Graduates of this course or those graduating with the Postgraduate Diploma in Interpreting can apply to register as RSLI with NRCPD.
- The University of Central Lancashire - UCLan Postgraduate Diploma in BSL/English Interpreting and Translation.
- Heriot-Watt University MA (Hons) in BSL (Interpreting, Translating and Applied Language Studies).
- Heriot-Watt University MA (Hons) in Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating). Graduates must be studying British Sign Language as one of their languages on the course.
- Signature Deaf Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting.
- Signature Deaf Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting and Translation (2020).
- Sign Language Interactions Advanced Diploma in Interpreting and Translation: BSL-English.
- IBSL Level 6 Diploma in BSL/English Interpreting Studies.
- IBSL Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting Studies.
- University of Wolverhampton BA (Hons) in Interpreting (BSL/English). (Graduates who achieve a First class degree from September 2017 onwards and show evidence of this).
All courses listed above *must* come with a Level 6 BSL qualification to register as RSLI with NRCPD.
NRCPD regulates communication professionals that work with deaf and deafblind people.
Interested in becoming a qualified and registered Sign Language Interpreter with NRCPD?
You will need to undertake one of their Approved Interpreting Courses, as well as holding a recognised BSL Level 6 qualification.
Their approved interpreting courses are:
- Wolverhampton MA Interpreting. Graduates of this course or those graduating with the Postgraduate Diploma in Interpreting can apply to register as RSLI with NRCPD.
- The University of Central Lancashire - UCLan Postgraduate Diploma in BSL/English Interpreting and Translation.
- Heriot-Watt University MA (Hons) in BSL (Interpreting, Translating and Applied Language Studies).
- Heriot-Watt University MA (Hons) in Modern Languages (Interpreting and Translating). Graduates must be studying British Sign Language as one of their languages on the course.
- Signature Deaf Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting.
- Signature Deaf Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting and Translation (2020).
- Sign Language Interactions Advanced Diploma in Interpreting and Translation: BSL-English.
- IBSL Level 6 Diploma in BSL/English Interpreting Studies.
- IBSL Level 6 Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting Studies.
- University of Wolverhampton BA (Hons) in Interpreting (BSL/English). (Graduates who achieve a First class degree from September 2017 onwards and show evidence of this).
All courses listed above *must* come with a Level 6 BSL qualification to register as RSLI with NRCPD.
Rebecca A Withey's latest article in The Limping Chicken is a lovely list of deaf-led businesses. We thought we'd add the list below for anyone wanting to grab a Christmas pressie for a loved one.
Deaf Identity, led by Luke Christian. Fun clothing and accessories customised with BSL logos and fingers spelling.
www.deafidentity.com
Beautiful botanical art, gifts and prints by Katrina Sophia. www.katrinasophia.com
Malandra Casey is based in Blackpool and owns Mally’s Crafts. She produces gorgeous personalised signage and gift items. If you’re after a personalised Christmas Eve box or a personalised bauble for the Christmas tree, you’re in luck! www.mallyscrafts.co.uk
Melissa Mostyn is a deaf artist and writer who has some truly delightful Christmas card prints for sale. www.msmelissamostyn.com
Sam Egerton-Kemp, otherwise known as the Deaf Chef has his own homemade fudge which he dispatches across the country. Sam offers personalised fudge as well as vegan fudge too! The Deaf Chef
Beverley Cliff is the owner of Twinkle Gifts who create personalised, bespoke items. Their BSL Christmas Eve boards are super cute and there’s a whole range of lasered wood or slate items for you to browse on their site too!
Vicky Barber-Crimes who is one of several deaf artists whose work is featured on The Deaf Market. Check out this brilliant website for a list of deaf artists and their work.
T&J scents offer home fragrance and candles, which are hand poured right here in England. Made from the finest natural soy wax and fragrance oils, there’s an absolutely lovely luxurious range to choose from and a very impressive site over at www.tandjscents.com
Samantha Baines has a couple of books out aimed at young readers and they are bound to inspire budding writers to also write their own tales with deaf protagonists! www.samanthabaines.com
For even younger readers you could check out the BSL books for kids here too!
And finally, if you have any deaf music lovers in the family, for something a bit different you could buy them some guitar lessons with Tom Hunt who uses BSL. www.tomhunt.co.uk
https://limpingchicken.com/2022/12/13/rebecca-a-withey-my-round-up-of-deaf-led-businesses-to-shop-with-this-christmas/?fbclid=IwAR1djDZhcUxcjRggNyxhySSjHD4bRaYYYg4aZl-sh64ae0aRZvFeA2FxEUE
Deaf Identity, led by Luke Christian. Fun clothing and accessories customised with BSL logos and fingers spelling.
www.deafidentity.com
Beautiful botanical art, gifts and prints by Katrina Sophia. www.katrinasophia.com
Malandra Casey is based in Blackpool and owns Mally’s Crafts. She produces gorgeous personalised signage and gift items. If you’re after a personalised Christmas Eve box or a personalised bauble for the Christmas tree, you’re in luck! www.mallyscrafts.co.uk
Melissa Mostyn is a deaf artist and writer who has some truly delightful Christmas card prints for sale. www.msmelissamostyn.com
Sam Egerton-Kemp, otherwise known as the Deaf Chef has his own homemade fudge which he dispatches across the country. Sam offers personalised fudge as well as vegan fudge too! The Deaf Chef
Beverley Cliff is the owner of Twinkle Gifts who create personalised, bespoke items. Their BSL Christmas Eve boards are super cute and there’s a whole range of lasered wood or slate items for you to browse on their site too!
Vicky Barber-Crimes who is one of several deaf artists whose work is featured on The Deaf Market. Check out this brilliant website for a list of deaf artists and their work.
T&J scents offer home fragrance and candles, which are hand poured right here in England. Made from the finest natural soy wax and fragrance oils, there’s an absolutely lovely luxurious range to choose from and a very impressive site over at www.tandjscents.com
Samantha Baines has a couple of books out aimed at young readers and they are bound to inspire budding writers to also write their own tales with deaf protagonists! www.samanthabaines.com
For even younger readers you could check out the BSL books for kids here too!
And finally, if you have any deaf music lovers in the family, for something a bit different you could buy them some guitar lessons with Tom Hunt who uses BSL. www.tomhunt.co.uk
https://limpingchicken.com/2022/12/13/rebecca-a-withey-my-round-up-of-deaf-led-businesses-to-shop-with-this-christmas/?fbclid=IwAR1djDZhcUxcjRggNyxhySSjHD4bRaYYYg4aZl-sh64ae0aRZvFeA2FxEUE
TransPennine Express (TPE) has become one of the first train operators in the North to install British Sign Language (BSL) message boards.
The screens, which have been installed at Huddersfield railway station and other TPE managed stations across the North, will see live departures information and station messaging communicated with customers via BSL.
BSL users can now access service information without having to rely on spoken announcements or written departure screens.
https://news.railbusinessdaily.com/transpennine-express-installs-british-sign-language-departure-boards/
The screens, which have been installed at Huddersfield railway station and other TPE managed stations across the North, will see live departures information and station messaging communicated with customers via BSL.
BSL users can now access service information without having to rely on spoken announcements or written departure screens.
https://news.railbusinessdaily.com/transpennine-express-installs-british-sign-language-departure-boards/
Have you heard of Deafinitely Theatre?
Deafinitely theatre is the first deaf launched and deaf led professional theatre company in the uk producing quality bilingual theatre in British Sign Language and spoken english.
Their latest series of work called Talking Hands features five bold films written by deaf writers.
These films were created as a response to the deaf experience of the coronavirus pandemic, providing opportunities to deaf artists at a time when creative live theatre wasn't possible.
These five compelling and heart-warming monologues are bravely inspired by personal experiences and filmed entirely in the visual storytelling of British Sign Language.
Life, It Goes On by Abigail Gorman, starring Bea Webster; I Still Blame Myself by Lianne Herbert, starring Cherie Gordon; Keeping Hope by Melissa Mostyn, starring Nadia Nadarajah; The Woman I Am written and performed by Samantha Pearsall; and Lockdown Hairy written and performed by EJ Raymond, tell inspirational stories of deaf single parents in lockdown.
Watch the short films for FREE at the links below. Join in the conversation on social media @DeafinitelyT.
https://www.deafinitelytheatre.co.uk/pages/category/talking-hands
Deafinitely theatre is the first deaf launched and deaf led professional theatre company in the uk producing quality bilingual theatre in British Sign Language and spoken english.
Their latest series of work called Talking Hands features five bold films written by deaf writers.
These films were created as a response to the deaf experience of the coronavirus pandemic, providing opportunities to deaf artists at a time when creative live theatre wasn't possible.
These five compelling and heart-warming monologues are bravely inspired by personal experiences and filmed entirely in the visual storytelling of British Sign Language.
Life, It Goes On by Abigail Gorman, starring Bea Webster; I Still Blame Myself by Lianne Herbert, starring Cherie Gordon; Keeping Hope by Melissa Mostyn, starring Nadia Nadarajah; The Woman I Am written and performed by Samantha Pearsall; and Lockdown Hairy written and performed by EJ Raymond, tell inspirational stories of deaf single parents in lockdown.
Watch the short films for FREE at the links below. Join in the conversation on social media @DeafinitelyT.
https://www.deafinitelytheatre.co.uk/pages/category/talking-hands
Feeling festive and fancy some theatre? This production of the Christmas Carol has BSL integrated into the show.
Showing in Hull Truck Theatre till the 31st December.
"On a cold Christmas Eve, four spirits conspire to show Ebenezer Scrooge the error of his ways. His old business partner, Jacob Marley has returned from the dead to offer him a second chance, if he can change his mean and miserly behaviour.
Nowhere are the effects of poverty more keenly felt than in the Cratchit family, especially by their youngest son, Tiny Tim. As Scrooge’s inspirational journey shows him both the hardship and love of those around him, he is reminded of his own powers of charity and kindness.
This thrilling adaptation of Dicken’s classic Christmas ghost story, set in Hull, is a magical, festive treat for all the family.
British Sign Language (BSL) will be embedded into the production of A Christmas Carol. Both Adam Bassett (Bob Cratchit) and Emma Prendergast (Mrs Cratchit) will creatively integrate BSL into their performances and audiences can easily follow the story simply by watching* the action unfolding on stage.
*Visually impaired audiences will be able to access the show via an Audio Described performance on Tue 20 Dec, 7pm".
https://www.hulltruck.co.uk/whats-on/christmas/a-christmas-carol/?fbclid=IwAR0MQN7DAwgfHUgOgOZFoYI2gYnX6mITFvsRQOFV1FKiTA4_TC4_Yd8CBhY
Showing in Hull Truck Theatre till the 31st December.
"On a cold Christmas Eve, four spirits conspire to show Ebenezer Scrooge the error of his ways. His old business partner, Jacob Marley has returned from the dead to offer him a second chance, if he can change his mean and miserly behaviour.
Nowhere are the effects of poverty more keenly felt than in the Cratchit family, especially by their youngest son, Tiny Tim. As Scrooge’s inspirational journey shows him both the hardship and love of those around him, he is reminded of his own powers of charity and kindness.
This thrilling adaptation of Dicken’s classic Christmas ghost story, set in Hull, is a magical, festive treat for all the family.
British Sign Language (BSL) will be embedded into the production of A Christmas Carol. Both Adam Bassett (Bob Cratchit) and Emma Prendergast (Mrs Cratchit) will creatively integrate BSL into their performances and audiences can easily follow the story simply by watching* the action unfolding on stage.
*Visually impaired audiences will be able to access the show via an Audio Described performance on Tue 20 Dec, 7pm".
https://www.hulltruck.co.uk/whats-on/christmas/a-christmas-carol/?fbclid=IwAR0MQN7DAwgfHUgOgOZFoYI2gYnX6mITFvsRQOFV1FKiTA4_TC4_Yd8CBhY
When ITVX officially launches on 8 December, Deaf viewers will have access to what is a worldwide streaming first - a British Sign Language channel, solely featuring signed programming, which will include a range of shows like the Emmerdale and Coronation Street omnibus episodes, Cilla, Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow, Vera, Lewis, and The Saint. The channel will be regularly updated and will evolve to include both recent and archive programming from a wide variety of genres.
ITV's Director of Accessibility, David Padmore, said:
"We're committed to placing great accessibility at the heart of ITVX and our offering at launch represents significant progress on ITV Hub. Our ITV Signed Channel gives us a fantastic platform for showcasing our rich archive of signed programmes."
Teri Devine, Associate Director for Inclusion at RNID, said:
“Following the recognition of the British Sign Language (BSL) Act earlier this year, it is fantastic to see more and more industries and organisations become accessible to BSL users. We’re thrilled that ITV have considered the accessibility of BSL users for the launch of their new channel feature, making it easier for them to find new signed content. Building in accessibility from the start is important and should be the norm, and we look forward to seeing ITV expanding its access services across the remaining platforms. For support or information, visit RNID.org.uk".
ITV's Director of Accessibility, David Padmore, said:
"We're committed to placing great accessibility at the heart of ITVX and our offering at launch represents significant progress on ITV Hub. Our ITV Signed Channel gives us a fantastic platform for showcasing our rich archive of signed programmes."
Teri Devine, Associate Director for Inclusion at RNID, said:
“Following the recognition of the British Sign Language (BSL) Act earlier this year, it is fantastic to see more and more industries and organisations become accessible to BSL users. We’re thrilled that ITV have considered the accessibility of BSL users for the launch of their new channel feature, making it easier for them to find new signed content. Building in accessibility from the start is important and should be the norm, and we look forward to seeing ITV expanding its access services across the remaining platforms. For support or information, visit RNID.org.uk".
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