Sign Language Week
Sign Language Week will be running from 13th - 19th March 2023 and is run on an annual basis by the British Deaf Association (BDA). It is celebrated each year in March to coincide with the anniversary of the recognition of BSL by the British Government in 2003.
The theme for Sign Language Week 2023 is: “Protecting BSL”.
The aim of the campaign is to encourage people of all ages across the UK to take up the challenge of learning BSL for themselves and finding out more about the language and culture of the Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing British people for whom BSL is their first or preferred language.
The positive impact of BSL on thousands of Deaf and hard of hearing people are often under appreciated. Our goal is to make everyone realise the importance of BSL, and how awareness can make a big difference.
In partnership with the British Deaf Association (BDA), we will be hosting the UK’s largest British Sign Language (BSL) lesson online with primary schools across the UK.
In April 2022 a Bill to recognise British Sign Language as a language of England, Wales and Scotland was passed by the UK Government; to require the Secretary of State to report on the promotion and facilitation of the use of British Sign Language by ministerial government departments; and to require guidance to be issued in relation to British Sign Language.
Our lesson will give you and your school the opportunity to learn BSL from a Deaf teacher, as well as the wider benefits for children is such as strengthened improved communication skills and confidence, new ways for them to express emotions, and an appreciation of the diverse cultures of the UK.
