Building Inclusion Through British Sign Language Sessions

We recently held our regular biweekly British Sign Language (BSL) session, led by our Inclusion Administrator, Cherry Ryder. Building on skills from previous sessions, such as signing our own names, this session gave us the opportunity to practice and refine these skills. We also expanded our knowledge by learning how to sign the days of the week, which will be especially useful in everyday conversations.

A key focus of the session was expressing emotions through BSL, covering words such as tired, angry, stressed, and happy. This encouraged us to reflect on the importance of communication not only for practical purposes but also for emotional wellbeing and connection.

To ensure accessibility and support different learning styles, the sessions are complemented with resources such as visual aids, and guides. Looking ahead, future sessions will continue to build on this foundation, introducing more advanced vocabulary and scenarios to deepen our understanding of BSL and Deaf culture.

This initiative continues to be a strong testament to our ongoing commitment to fostering inclusion in the workplace. By learning BSL together, we are breaking down barriers, creating a more supportive environment, and ensuring communication is accessible to all. These sessions not only teach a valuable skill but also bring us closer as a team, promoting empathy, understanding, and respect for diverse experiences. We are proud to be part of an organisation that invests in initiatives like this, helping everyone contribute to a more inclusive, connected, and culturally aware workplace.