Did you know that Santa uses British Sign Language?
Organised by Premier BSL/Deaf Friendly Business Solutions and held at Caerphilly Golf Club, signing Santa was one of this year's highlights.
The event brought together d/Deaf and hearing-impaired children for fun, food and presents in an environment that is inclusive and accessible for all deaf children. Even the elves can use BSL.
As a deaf child who had no contact with other deaf children until the age of 9 and no connection with the Deaf Community or BSL until I was an adult, I know how important events like these would have been for my sense of identity and self-esteem.
Premier BSL promotes and teaches Welsh signs and the seeks to preserve the Welsh dialect of British Sign Language. Huge kudos to Sarah Lawrence who is the driving force behind all of this work. She has taught BSL to hundreds (thousands?) of people in Wales, including me and is a fierce advocate for improving educational outcomes for deaf children.
Interested in learning BSL? You'll find high-quality online level one courses and in-person classes at all levels including taster sessions through Premier BSL.
The popularity of BSL is rising thanks to campaigning and more recent high-profile celebrities such as Rose Ayling-Ellis but there is a long way to go before we eliminate the huge access barriers and inequalities that deaf people still face.
If you have a deaf child in South Wales who might benefit from linking up with other deaf children, get in touch.
