An event from the Royal Society of Edinburgh Investigates series

The BSL (Scotland) Act 2015 officially recognised British Sign Language as one of Scotland’s languages. A national plan followed on how authorities would improve access to information, services and opportunities for BSL users.

Fast forward to 2026, and many of the plan’s benefits are yet to materialise:

  • Deaf children and their families still face barriers to early BSL access and education
  • Employment opportunities remain limited
  • Little capacity building for Deaf professionals.

Jemina Napier and Robert Adam from Heriot-Watt University reflect on the last decade and explore what it takes to create genuine opportunities for Deaf people to participate in, access and contribute to society.

This event has BSL interpretation and is accessible to both Deaf and hearing audiences.

Find out more and book your place here.

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