Learning

Empowering through Deaf Awareness and British Sign Language (BSL)

Action Deafness offers a range of training options to enhance communication and inclusion. Our Deaf Awareness Training and BSL Taster sessions help individuals and organisations create more Deaf-friendly environments by promoting inclusivity and breaking down communication barriers.

With over 18 million people in the UK experiencing some form of hearing loss and an estimated 151,000 British Sign Language (BSL) users, the need for effective communication and understanding is significant.

Whether you're just starting or want to improve your skills, we have the resources to help.

18 million+

Over 18 million UK adults have deafness or hearing loss.

150,000+

Over 150,000 people use BSL in the UK, and for an estimated 87,000 Deaf people, it's their first or preferred language.

More than half

More than half the population aged 55+ have hearing loss.

2022

The British Sign Language (BSL) Act 2022 was passed, officially recognising BSL as a language in England, Scotland, and Wales.

What We Offer

Our Deaf Awareness Training and BSL Taster sessions offer a unique opportunity to enhance your communication skills and knowledge of Deaf culture, led by Deaf trainers and providing real-world tools to foster inclusivity.

We offer flexible training options, including bespoke sessions delivered online or face-to-face.

Explore our specific training options and resources:

  • Deaf Awareness Training

  • BSL Taster Sessions

  • BSL Courses

  • BSL Resources

  • AD Shop

Training Benefits

Our interactive training supports diverse learning levels and offers valuable insights into Deaf culture and British Sign Language. You will learn to communicate effectively with Deaf and Hard of Hearing people, creating more inclusive and welcoming spaces.

Deaf Awareness Training

Discover the richness of Deaf culture and gain the knowledge and understanding to create more inclusive environments and engage in effective communication with Deaf and Hard of Hearing people.

British Sign Language (BSL) Taster Sessions

Gain an introduction into British Sign Language (BSL) through engaging, interactive sessions. Learn basic signs and phrases, and building confidence in starting to communicate with Deaf people.

British Sign Language Courses

Gain practical British Sign Language (BSL) skills, along with cultural and linguistic knowledge through our accredited courses. Learn key signs and phrases, while building confidence to communicate effectively with Deaf people. Accredited by Signature.

Upcoming Courses

BSL Level 1 Course - Loughborough

👐 Learn British Sign Language with us!

🗓️ Every Thursday (30 weeks)

Start: Thursday 8 January 2026

End: Thursday 30 July 2026

🕙 Time: 10am–12pm

📍 Loughborough University Science & Enterprise Park, 5 Oakwood Drive, Loughborough, LE11 3QF

Please email us for more information and to register: [email protected]

Or complete the enquiry form below.

Feedback from our participants

"Really informative, highlighted an area I had never thought about and has given us an open and interactive experience that will help us be better midwives" - Student Midwife

"Yes I would recommend, it was a really good starting point for a beginner."

"It was good to understand the context BSL and that it doesn't follow English language per se, also that the facial expressions and lips play as important part as the signing."

"The course was spot on. I liked the numbers and alphabet best. I would wholeheartedly recommend the course to others. The communication with you from booking to certificate have been very good, thank you."

Connect With Us

We believe in a world where communication is accessible to everyone. Our Deaf Awareness Training and BSL taster sessions are designed to empower your organisation to foster a truly inclusive environment.

Whether you're looking for bespoke online sessions or face-to-face training, we'll tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.

Let's start the conversation. Contact us today for a quote and discover how we can help you create a more accessible and understanding society.

Resources

Explore our collection of learning materials and British Sign Language (BSL) video tutorials on our Resources page.

AD Shop

Discover our range of Deaf awareness materials, specialist resources, books, and more. Your purchase directly supports Action Deafness. Every item helps us empower Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing people.

Meet Our Trainers

Headshot: Tanvir Ahmed
Tanvir Ahmed

Hubs Operations and Training Manager

Headshot: Hanisha Sandhu
Hanisha Sandhu

Operations Administrator

Headshot: Charles Hampton II
Charles Hampton II

BSL Tutor (Wales)

Headshot: Kathryn Barnes
Kathryn Barnes

BSL Tutor / Children & Family Coordinator (Wales)

Headshot: Claire Sanders
Claire Sanders

BSL Tutor (Wales)

Related Services

Looking for more ways to be inclusive? Action Deafness offers additional services to help your organisation become even more accessible:

  • SignTranslate: Bespoke British Sign Language (BSL) translation and editing services to make your content accessible to everyone.

  • Booking communication support: We can assist booking BSL interpreters, notetakers and other communication support for your events and workplaces.

  • Accessibility Consultation: Our team can guide you through how to make your services accessible. Connect with us to discuss your requirements: [email protected]

Get in touch

Please complete the enquiry form below.

For more information, please email [email protected]

Call 0116 253 3200

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