News
International Day of Sign Language
Posted 11/09/24
23 September 2024 : First celebrated in 2018 as part of International Week of the Deaf, International Day of Sign Language stands as a unique opportunity to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all Deaf people and other sign language users.
According to the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), there are more than 70 million Deaf people worldwide. Collectively, they use more than 300 different sign languages.
Sign languages are fully fledged natural languages, structurally distinct from the spoken languages. Over 70,000 Deaf people in the UK have British Sign Language (BSL) as their first language. There is also an international sign language, which is used by Deaf people in international meetings and informally when travelling and socialising. It is considered a pidgin form of sign language that is not as complex as natural sign languages and has a limited vocabulary. These sign languages serve as the primary means of communication for millions of Deaf individuals worldwide.
More information can be found on the United Nations website.
Support the International Day of Sign Language!
International Day of Sign Language is celebrated annually across the world on 23 September every year, along with International Week of the Deaf. This day marks the birth of an advocacy organisation, which has, as one of its main goals, the preservation of sign languages and Deaf culture as fundamental to the realisation of the human rights of Deaf people. It exists as a testament to the power of sign language in breaking down communication barriers and fostering inclusivity for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. It’s a day to recognise the beauty, diversity, and cultural significance of sign languages around the globe.
The aim of the special day is to remind big companies, worldwide organisations and global governments of the importance and significance of sign languages.
How can people take part in the International Day of Sign Language?
- Learn Some Sign Language: Even learning a few basic signs can go a long way in fostering inclusivity and breaking down communication barrier
- Attend Local Events: Many communities organise events, workshops, and cultural performances on this day. Attending these events can be a great way to learn more about sign language and Deaf culture
- Support Deaf Organisations: Consider donating to or volunteering with organisations that work to support Deaf individuals, promote sign language, and advocate for their rights
- Spread Awareness: Use social media and other platforms to spread awareness about International Day of Sign Language. Share facts, stories, and resources to educate others about the importance of sign language and Deaf culture
CTSI incoming Chair Nikki Pasek has severe hearing loss. She uses hearing aids, lip reading and is learning sign language to support her communication needs. In support of International Sign Language Day, Nikki shares the following facts to help you learn more about deafness and hearing loss.
- British Sign Language is a different language, visual not written and with its own grammar and sentence construction. The BSL Act 2022 recognises BSL as a language for England, Scotland and Wales, and requires public service providers to enable equitable access for people whose first language is BSL
- Even the best lip-readers only catch around half of the words said to them, so natural facial expressions and hand gestures can really help
- Good communication is essential. Learn more about how to communicate with someone who is Deaf or has hearing loss at https://rnid.org.uk/information-and-support/how-to-communicate-with-deaf-people-hearing-loss/
/International Day of Sign Language reminds us of the vital role sign language plays in creating an inclusive society where Deaf individuals can fully participate in all aspects of life. By promoting sign language and understanding its cultural significance, we take a significant step towards a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone, regardless of their hearing status.
Consumer Vulnerability and Deafness
A vulnerable consumer is someone whose personal circumstances makes them especially susceptible to detriment. Vulnerability can include circumstances which affect a person’s ability to absorb and comprehend information, understand their rights and make decisions in their own best interest due to cognitive impairment or other temporary factors. Consumers will not necessarily identify as being vulnerable, which means the responsibility is on companies and their staff to recognise those buyers who may need extra support.
There are many different degrees and types of deafness and different ways for Deaf people, or those who have a hearing impairment, to communicate. You won’t immediately know that someone is Deaf or has a hearing impairment. It may only become apparent when they speak or fail to hear you when you speak to them. Some Deaf people use sign language and may have an interpreter with them, but many will rely on lip-reading and hearing aids.
Business Companion: How businesses can help vulnerable consumers
How can businesses support vulnerable consumers?
Working with vulnerable consumers may require a more flexible approach to communication. Providing different methods of communication for various consumers, such as electronic means of communication or hard copy documents, can be a great way to provide a more inclusive service.
CTSI's Guidance for Traders on Pricing Practices addresses the issue:
The Regulations require traders to ensure that consumers are not treated unfairly, by reference to the standard of an average consumer. However, it is important to understand that the characteristics of the average consumer may include vulnerability.
The Equality Act 2010 concerns provisions relating to consumers being treated unfairly because of something connected with a disability. There is a positive duty to make reasonable adjustments to enable a consumer to access the service in question, and this entails proactive and anticipatory steps to avoid the disadvantage.
Things to consider:
- Inclusive design: Designing products or services so they are accessible to, and usable by, as many consumers as possible
- Communication: Finding the right communications channel for consumers with differing needs is key
- Training: Train your staff to understand the nature and scale of vulnerability that exist in your target consumer market
- Vulnerable consumer policy: Can define what constitutes a vulnerable consumer and sets out how these consumers can achieve a fair outcome
Click here to download the Business in Focus guide on 'Consumer Vulnerability' (pdf)
Find out more . . .