Antrim and Newtownabbey: 'Stronger focus on meaningful engagement with deaf sign language users'
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Policy and Governance Committee has agreed to pursue accreditation under the British Deaf Association (BDA) Sign Language Charter.
The council backed a motion in March 2021 to become a ‘Deaf Friendly’ council in a bid to improve services and has committed to the Charter for British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) with BSL training programmes for councillors, staff and residents. Sign language interpreters have been provided at inclusive council events.
A report presented to the local government authority’s Policy and Governance Committee, at a meeting, in Antrim Civic Centre, last week, explained that the BDA Sign Language Charter has replaced the Charter for British Sign Language (BDA) and Irish Sign Language (IS ) which has been developed with a “stronger focus on accessibility, inclusion and meaningful engagement with deaf sign language users”.
The charter seeks to “actively consult and engage with sign language users to improve effective and inclusive use” of sign language across the organisation, provide fair and inclusive access to information and services in sign language and demonstrate how this is delivered.
The local authority must also demonstrate how deaf sign language users are included within employment practices. After the council commits to the charter, the British Deaf Association will carry out site visits, an audit report and final assessment.
Council members were also told that the Sign Language Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 came into effect in September, The legislation formally recognises both British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language as official languages of Northern Ireland.
The legislation places new duties on public bodies to promote and support the use of sign language, improve accessibility across services.
It also includes provision for deaf children and young people up to the age of 25, as well as their families, to access free BSL and ISL lessons, helping ensure early and consistent access to the languages.
Ballyclare DUP Councillor Jeannie Archibald-Brown proposed accepting the recommendation to pursue accreditation, saying that it is “definitely” something the council should pursue. Her proposal was seconded by party colleague Dunsilly Alderman Linda Clarke.
The National Deaf Children’s Society says: “For deaf children, access to language whether spoken or signed. or both, is essential.
“Sign language supports communication, learning, identity and well-being. It enables children to connect with their families, take part in their communities, and develop confidence in who they are.
“This Bill represents a significant shift towards a future where deaf children do not have to fight for access to language, and where sign language is recognised and promoted as a fundamental part of everyday life in Northern Ireland.”
The National Deaf Children’s Society adds: “The passing of the Bill is a major milestone – but it is not the end of the journey. We will continue to monitor government progress and work alongside partners and the deaf community to ensure this legislation is fully delivered and leads to tangible, lasting improvements for deaf children, young people and their families.”
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter