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Plans to make Wales the best place in the UK for British Sign Language (BSL) users have officially become law after receiving Royal Assent.
The BSL bill – introduced by Conservative Mark Isherwood and backed by Senedd Members from across the political spectrum last month – will end Wales’ status as the only UK nation without specific sign language protections.
The legislation creates a new framework to promote and support the use of BSL in Wales, and requires Welsh Government ministers to develop a national BSL strategy.
The BSL Wales Consortium has described the bill’s passing as a “historic milestone”.
What is the BSL Wales Consortium?
The BSL Wales Consortium consists of Alison Bryan (co-chair), Dr Rob Wilks (co-chair), ABSLTA (Association of BSL Teachers and Assessors), Action Deafness Cymru, ASLI, British Deaf Association, COS (The Centre of Sign-Sight-Sound), National Deaf Children’s Society Cymru, NRCPD, RNID, Signature, Talking Hands Deaf Children and Young people and VLP.
In a statement following Royal Assent, the consortium said: “We hope to see an early implementation of this important piece of legislation after the Senedd elections and look forward to working with the new Welsh Government towards its implementation.
It continued “For too long, BSL signers have had to navigate inaccessible public services every day; they have had their language needs denied across healthcare, education, transport, and more.
“The Act is a critical step in the right direction to address this. The experience and expectations of deaf BSL signers can be central to how we improve public services across Wales. We want to have a real say over the decisions that affect our lives.”
‘Momentous occasion’
Speaking in the Senedd on March 11 before the vote, Mr Isherwood – who is not seeking re-election next week – said: “This really is a momentous occasion and one that I’m very proud to be part of.”
He also thanked everyone involved in getting the bill over the line and said: “This really has been cross-party working of the highest order.”
Discussing the importance of the bill, Mr Isherwood said: “BSL is fundamental to communication and inclusion in everyday life.
“For many deaf people, it is not simply a means of communication, but their first language, the primary way they express themselves, connect with others and access the services they rely upon.
“BSL also plays a vital role in bringing deaf and hearing communities together, helping to remove barriers and foster greater understanding.
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