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Sign Language Week

· 3 min read
Debbie James
Debbie James
Director & CEO @ Deafblind Enablement
Original Video Without Voiceover

It's Sign Language Week!​

Thank you Heidi, DBE's Awareness Officer and Josh, DBE's Head of Training detailing the most important points to consider when using Visual Frame and Hands On communication.

Heidi says:​

I want to give you about BSL Interpreter Language most important points

  • We all need good lighting;
  • Plain clothing dark navy, red - it varies with deafblind people's vision;, no patterns;
  • Seating: always sit face to face, opposite each other;
  • Sit at the same level, not one person higher or lower than the other;
  • Interpreters do not sit behind a window because it makes your face dark from the light behind; It's important to know if the person uses Visual frame, Hands On, Deafblind Manual, Block letters.
  • Thank you for watching. HAPPY SIGN LANGUAGE WEEK!

Josh states:​

  • Did you know that many BSL signs cannot be seen when a deafblind person uses hands-on or visual frame. This is because many words use the same sign with different lip pattern, facial expressions or location.
  • Sign Language is not just about signing BSL vocabulary, it is how you communicate the whole message to convey the context, tone and meaning behind what is being said.
  • Using BSL Visual Frame or Hands On alongside Deafblind Manual, Spartan Block and BSL fibgerspelling is vital to clarify and reinforce key points of a message, at DBE we believe in a "total communication" philosophy
  • A deafblind person's emotional state and general wellbeing can impact on how much information they receive and retain.
  • Giving the appropriate environmental information through effective communication empowers Deafblind people and allows them to regain choice, control and independence that is often lost through dual sensory impairment
  • When working with Deafblind people, you need to be specifically trained to understand their individual needs and support them appropriately
  • It is easier to pity Deafblind people than to understand their needs and treat them with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Come and join us on our Deafblind courses to become a Specialist Interpreter Guide / Communicator-Guide or join our team.

For information email training@deafblind-enablement.co.uk

Contact us to discuss how you can make a difference; 01733 686969 www.deafblind-enablement.co.uk