The British Deaf Association (BDA) has welcomed the passage of the Sign Language Bill in Northern Ireland, calling it a landmark step forward for the recognition and promotion of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL).
Safeguarding Our Past, Inspiring Our Future
Experience Deaf culture through an incredible exhibition of deaf artwork, artefacts and stories at the Deaf Museum, Manchester. Plan your visit now!
The Deaf Museum
Experience Deaf culture through an incredible exhibition of deaf artwork, artefacts and stories at the Deaf Museum, Manchester; part of the BDA’s national heritage programme
Signs of Unity
You’ll Never Walk Alone - in British Sign Language. For 135 years, Deaf signers have led, fought, and celebrated their language and culture together. Now, one of football’s most iconic anthems is brought to life in BSL.
BSL Conference 2026
Tickets are on sale now for this year’s BDA conference at DeafExpo, Birmingham, on 15-16 May 2026!
The value of British Sign Language. An economic analysis.
Around the world, over 430 million people are deaf or hard of hearing. Of these, 34 million are children. They all face ongoing barriers to education, employment, and social participation.
Latest News
Press Statement: BSL (Wales) Act 2026 has received Royal Assent
The BSL Wales Consortium is delighted to learn that the British Sign Language (Wales) Act 2026 has received Royal Assent.
British Deaf Association endorses LumoTV’s “91% Mandate” Campaign
The British Deaf Association (BDA) is proud to endorse LumoTV’s 91% Mandate Campaign, which calls for greater representation of Deaf talent, British Sign Language (BSL), and Deaf-led storytelling across the UK’s screen industries.
Meet the new BDA Youth Committee
We are thrilled to introduce the newest faces of the British Deaf Association (BDA) Youth Committee
Press Statement: Senedd’s vote
Today marks a historic milestone for Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) signers across Wales. The passing of the British Sign Language (Wales) Bill in the Senedd ensures that the distinct language and culture of BSL signers is recognised
BDA Statement: A collaborative journey to celebrate BSL in football
The British Deaf Association is aware of the discussion within the Deaf community regarding the BSL interpretation of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” at Anfield.