A look into British Sign Language(BSL) and Deaf Communication

Former BSL student Emma, shares with us some of what she learned about the Deaf community during her studies with us.

When I first began studying British Sign Language (BSL) at UHI Moray, I was amazed by the visuality of the language itself and the culture that surrounds it. Communication in the Deaf community is far more than just a means to an end—it's a lifeline, a form of identity, and a powerful expression of connection.

More Than Just Hands

BSL is the most used sign language in the UK, but it’s far from the only one. There’s also Makaton, Paget Gorman, Cued Speech, and Sign Supported English (SSE). Each has its own purpose and place, whether in education, therapy, or everyday conversation. What they all share is a visual, expressive nature that brings communication to life in a way that spoken language sometimes can’t.

But communication doesn’t stop at signing. With the rise of smartphones and social media, Deaf individuals are connecting in ways that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. Platforms like TikTok have become spaces not only for entertainment but for education and advocacy. I’ve seen creators use these platforms to teach signs, share their experiences, and build communities that span continents – even I have shared my journey learning small parts of the language.

And yes, sometimes it’s as simple as a notepad and pen. Especially in situations where technology fails or isn’t accessible, this old-school method remains a reliable backup.

Challenges That Still Need Addressing

Despite these advancements, the Deaf community continues to face significant challenges. One that stood out to me was the shortage of Teachers of the Deaf in Scotland. Imagine over 3,000 Deaf children relying on over 150 teachers.

Access to services is another ongoing issue. Even after the BSL Act was passed, many Deaf individuals still find it difficult to navigate healthcare, banking, and public services—especially during the pandemic when face masks made lip-reading impossible.

And then there’s mental health. Studies from Queen’s University Belfast revealed a few years ago that Deaf children are significantly more likely to experience mental health issues like anxiety and depression. It’s heartbreaking, but not surprising, given the barriers they face.

The Heart of Deaf Culture

Did you know that Deaf people often have “sign names”? These are unique signs given by others in the community, often based on a person’s appearance or personality. It’s a beautiful tradition—one that’s rooted in respect and identity.

Storytelling is another cornerstone. Passed down through generations, these stories preserve history, teach values, and strengthen bonds. They’re not just tales—they’re a way of keeping culture alive.

And then there’s the way Deaf individuals interact with the world. In a restaurant, for example, a Deaf person might maintain eye contact with the server throughout the interaction—something hearing people often avoid. It’s a small detail, but it speaks volumes about the importance of visual connection in Deaf culture.

How we can help?

Knowing even the basic signs can make a huge difference to the deaf community, I am no expert myself and I am far from fluent, but I have seen first hand the joy it brings to sign language users when people engage with them in a way they understand. 

UHI Moray offers BSL classes both at senior phase (for S4 - S6) and evening classes including a “beginners” course at SCQF Level 3 allowing anyone to learn the basics, meet new friends and interact with BSL users in a supportive environment.

Explore our BSL courses > British Sign Language

Hear from Abby about her experience on the course > Student Thoughts: Abby, British Sign Language