BSL

British Sign Language (BSL) is the sign language used by many Deaf people in the United Kingdom. It is a natural language with its own grammar, lexicon, and regional variations, and is not simply a signed version of English. BSL uses manual signs, spatial grammar, and facial expressions or other non-manual signals to convey meaning and grammatical relationships.

BSL developed in Britain through Deaf communities and institutions in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is distinct from other sign languages such as American Sign Language (ASL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL), and there are regional dialects within the UK. Sign languages are not mutually intelligible, reflecting separate linguistic histories.

In terms of status, British Parliament passed the British Sign Language Act in 2015, recognizing BSL as a language and requiring public authorities to have due regard to the needs of BSL users. The act aims to promote access to information and services through BSL and to raise awareness of Deaf culture. BSL is taught in some schools and universities, and qualified interpreters provide access to education, healthcare, and public services.

Use of BSL extends to media, entertainment, and community events in the UK, with Deaf organizations, education providers, and government services supporting BSL access. While BSL is the most widely used sign language in Britain, other sign languages such as ISL and SLS are used in neighboring regions, reflecting diverse Deaf communities within and around the British Isles.