Overview

The British Sign Language Bill aims to officially recognize British Sign Language (BSL) as a language of England, Wales, and Scotland. It also mandates government reporting on efforts to promote BSL use and requires the publication of guidance on best practices for its use in communication.

Description

This bill achieves its aims in three key ways:

• Recognition of BSL: The bill formally recognizes BSL as a language of England, Wales, and Scotland. This is largely a symbolic act, affirming BSL's status but not altering existing laws.
• Reporting Requirements: The Secretary of State is required to produce regular reports detailing how various government departments are promoting and facilitating the use of BSL in their public communications (excluding communications with individuals or those not intended for the wider public). These reports will cover announcements, publications, and use of media like press conferences and social media.
• Guidance on BSL Use: The Secretary of State must issue, or arrange for the issuance of, guidance on promoting and facilitating the use of BSL. This guidance may include advice to government departments, best practices for communication with BSL users, and illustrative case studies.

The bill specifies that the Secretary of State's responsibilities do not extend to matters relating only to Scotland or Wales that are not reserved matters under relevant Acts.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly allocate specific funds. However, the reporting and guidance requirements will necessitate administrative costs within government departments, and the implementation of best practices could lead to increased spending on BSL interpretation and related resources. The exact financial impact remains to be determined.

Groups Affected

• Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals: This bill could significantly benefit this community by increasing the visibility and accessibility of BSL within governmental communication and services.
• Government departments: These departments will incur costs associated with reporting and implementing the guidance related to BSL, and will need to adjust their communication strategies.
• British Sign Language interpreters and related professionals: There may be an increased demand for BSL interpreters and other related services as a result of the bill's implementation.
• Taxpayers: Ultimately, the costs associated with the bill's implementation will be borne by UK taxpayers.

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