Why am I learning BSL?

[DAG07]

Hi! 👋 I'm Darryl.. Nice too meet you all..

Why am I learning BSL? Well, I'm 50% deaf in my right ear, and have been since the age of 3. I also have constant tinnitus and have had for as long as I can remember. But that's not my motivation for learning.

When I was a kid, my Mam's best friend was an interpreter, and her partner was profoundly deaf. I remember him coming round (or my going round to their home) and seeing how frustrated he seemed to get sometimes not being able to communicate himself.. I also unfortunately witnessed some of the discrimination he had to endure.

I'm a support worker, and recently wondered about communication, and how integral it is to provide a good level of support/service. BSL has become more readily available to learn lately, and I believe the more people who can use it, the better.