British Sign Language (BSL) has been around for centuries but was only recognised by the UK government as a language in its own right in 2003. BSL involves a combination of hand shapes and movements, lip patterns, facial expressions, and shoulder movements. BSL has its own grammar and is structured in a completely different way from English. There are other sign languages such as Makaton, but BSL is the most used in the UK. Many D/deaf colleagues at Network Rail will request a BSL interpreter as a reasonable adjustment.

For more information on BSL, please familiarise yourself with Network Rail’s guidance on supporting D/deaf and hard of hearing colleagues in the workplace.