Introduction to Basic Sign Language

25 August 2026 9:00am–10:00am

Online via Microsoft Teams

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This 60 minute workshop, delivered by Caroline Cleghorn, offers the perfect starting point for anyone interested in learning BSL and taking the next steps on their signing journey.

Join us for a fun and interactive Introduction to British Sign Language (BSL) basics! This engaging session is designed to help you begin developing your BSL vocabulary while gaining valuable insight into Deaf culture. Through hands-on learning and guided practice, you’ll explore key signs, basic communication techniques, and the importance of inclusion and accessibility.

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Use basic BSL greetings and everyday phrases to engage in simple conversations.
2. Understand and apply some basic BSL grammatical structures, including facial expressions and non-manual signals.
3. Identify common barriers faced by Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals and discuss ways to promote inclusion and effective communication.

Attendees should expect to have their cameras on during this session so that the tutor is able to see your hand shape and offer constructive advice on how to improve.

Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served, basis.

To apply for a place on this session, please complete and submit the following form:

Introduction to Basic Sign Language August 2026

  • If you don't know your membership number please tell us your home postcode so we can find it for you.
  • We will use this information to check your UNISON membership and to send you information about attendance. If we are able to offer you a place on your chosen course then you will receive an email from us with further information.

  • UNISON Learning & Organising Equality Monitoring Form

  • This section of the form is entirely voluntary; however your co-operation would be appreciated. UNISON gathers this information so that participation in education and training can be monitored. This allows us to identify where there are areas of underrepresentation and work with our colleagues in the wider union to address any barriers to equal access.
  • We appreciate that some of the categories below are limited, but within these constraints, please give the answer most applicable to you.
  • This information will be used to update your UNISON membership records and will be treated in the strictest confidence.

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