SAM ROWLANDS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, is backing the introduction of a new law to improve the use of British Sign Language in Wales.
Last month fellow Welsh Conservative member, Mark Isherwood MS launched a consultation on his proposal for a British Sign Language (BSL) (Wales) Bill, inviting people to give their views on the policy objectives of the proposed law.
Mr Rowlands, a keen supporter of the proposed Bill is now urging constituents to take part in the consultation.
He said: “I was delighted to meet up with representatives from the British Deaf Association Cymru recently at the Senedd who were in Cardiff to show their support for the introduction of this Bill.
“I fully support the Bill which will help promote and facilitate the use of BSL, improve access to education, health and public services in BSL and, support the removal of barriers that exist for deaf people and their families.
“I was also happy to support BDA Cymru who were also promoting their new BSL in our Hands campaign aiming to ensure deaf babies/toddlers and their families get the opportunity to access to British Sign Language as early as possible.”
BDA has been supporting the Deaf Community in the UK since 1890 and in 2025, celebrate 135 years as an organisation. It continues to deliver its 10 Year Strategy with the overall aim of promoting and protecting British Sign Language to increase recognition, equality and inclusion for Deaf BSL signers across the UK.
Mr Martin Griffiths, BDA Cymru Manager thanked Sam for his support and said: “We hope 2025 sees the BSL (Wales) Bill move forward to become an Act as this is extremely vital important for current and future generations of Deaf people in Wales.”
The proposed British Sign Language (BSL) (Wales) Bill seeks to make provision to promote and facilitate the use of BSL and its tactile forms in Wales; improve access to education, health and public services in BSL and, support the removal of barriers that exist for deaf people and their families in education, health, public services, support services and in the workplace.
The Bill would also work towards ensuring that people who use BSL are not treated less favourably than those who speak Welsh or English, and will ensure that deaf communities have a voice in the design and delivery of services to ensure they meet their needs.
To take part in the consultation which is scheduled to close on January 17 2025, use the online form which contains specific guidance on this process.
Complete the consultation form online.
