New to BSL

[Nikki SD]

Hi there, I work with a sight loss charity and come into contact with some people who are Deaf or hearing impaired from time to time.  BSL has always fascinated me.  I find myself watching the interpreter rather than presenters at conferences.  To be able to communicate with people better and not exclude them, I decided to look into learning BSL.  It would be good to have a buddy to practice with from time to time.  I'm only beginner level though (currently on module 4 of the online course).

[bella]

Hi, I am a young teenager and i have always been fascinated with sign language. I first got into this program through my church because I, along with a few others, do makaton along with the songs to support the community of disabled people in our church. I wanted to further my understanding of sign language so i joined this program. My new years revolution this year was to practice more and i was just wandering if you had any tips on how to stay motivated to practice more?

[Nikki SD]

Hi Bella, I think the best way to keep up with practice is to book time in with a buddy each week or month so there is a dedicated slot/reminder.  I'm happy to buddy with you.  I work full time and am a carer for three people, so it can be quite tricky to find time for me.  That said, I'm keen to break the cycle and do something about practicing.  Please get in touch with me if you would like to take up this offer.

[Rachael McKenna]

Hi  I just joined here today so thought I would introduce myself. I started learning BSL years ago through university but left university after my first year to become cabin crew and it is my one regret that I did not carry on learning, so I made it my new years goal to start again! I have worked as a SEND teaching assistant and support worker for 15 years and have used Makaton and SSE throughout this role so have managed to retain some of the signs etc. I now work as an apprenticeship skills coach and a neurodiversity inclusion trainer and really want to be able to learn BSL, not only for myself to be able to communicate with BSL users but, also to make sure that I can offer fully inclusive training services. I am keen to meet people who I can learn from and practice with and would love to become involved in events etc within the Deaf community. 

I look forward to connecting with people