BSL, or British Sign Language, is one of the most common languages in the UK.
It’s just like any other language – it even has its own regional accents – and is a language in its own right, not just a translation of English.
If you’ve ever thought about learning BSL but wondered if it’s worth it, then here are 5 reasons why you should take the plunge!
A new career path
If you feel like you’re stuck in a rut, working in a job you hate and want a new career path, then learning BSL might just be your ticket to a new life!
Freelance BSL interpreters can earn a good income and no two days are ever the same.
Of course, you’ll be self-employed, choosing your own hours and where/when you want to work, and don’t have to ask permission to go on holiday – beats sitting in an office 9-5!
Make new friends
One of the amazing things about learning any new language is the new people you meet you otherwise wouldn’t have, and BSL is no different.
There are literally thousands of people out there you can now communicate with face to face that you couldn’t before you knew sign language.
People from all walks of life with stories to tell, some of which you’ll find you have a lot in common with.
You can never have enough friends and learning BSL is a great way to make more!
Be deaf aware and boost your business
Ask anyone who’s deaf if they ever remember a time when someone unexpectedly started signing with them and they will all have an example of one.
That’s because it’s so surprising, especially in a business setting, when hearing people know how to sign.
By communicating more effectively with your customers, you’re almost certainly guaranteed to have them return, and usually pass the word on that your business is deaf-friendly.
Learn a new skill
When was the last time you learned a new skill?
As we get older, we tend not to bother teaching old dogs new tricks, unless we’re being trained for work or a special reason.
It’s never too late to learn something new, and BSL is a great example of something you can learn at your own pace and delve into as deep as you want.
And the great thing about it is, just like any other language, you’ll never stop learning! There is no finish line, so it’s an important skill you’ll take with you the rest of your life.
Celebrate diversity and help people
Deaf people can feel excluded, especially in social situations, so learning a way to communicate with someone can never be a bad thing.
By learning BSL you can act as a channel for people to join in at community events or parties, and you’ll be surprised how many deaf and hard of hearing people there are out there once you start signing.
You can help people as a campaigner, visiting schools to raise awareness, or simply volunteer for deaf charities.
Step out of your comfort zone and do something different by learning BSL.
We promise you won’t regret it.
