British Sign Language law follows Deaf-led campaign for recognition

Event

28/04/2022

On 28 April 2022, the British Sign Language Act received Royal Assent after a campaign led by Deaf people and organisations. Introduced by MP Rosie Cooper, it recognised BSL as a language of England, Scotland and Wales and required reporting on its use in central government communications. Northern Ireland was outside that recognition provision. [1]

A campaign turns recognition into legislation

The British Deaf Association welcomed the bill’s cross-party support in January 2022 and thanked Cooper, minister Chloe Smith and campaigners. It argued that the government’s earlier recognition of BSL had left users fighting daily barriers to information and public services. The campaign pressed for legal protection and wider teaching of the language.

Deaf advisers help shape implementation

The government appointed a 17-member advisory board, co-chaired by Craig Crowley, to advise on guidance and implementation. Its members included Deafblind tactile signers and people working in public services and advocacy. During the bill’s passage, Cooper called for “a law that requires positive action from the Government”. [1][3]

First reporting reveals uneven practice

The first government report appeared on 31 July 2023. The Commons Library noted that 11 of 20 departments listed no BSL activity in the reporting table. Ministers proposed annual reporting for five years and departmental improvement plans, giving the recognition law a continuing implementation agenda. [1][3]

A campaign turns recognition into legislation

Deaf advisers help shape implementation

First reporting reveals uneven practice

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