Sandwell Council has launched a new series of British Sign Language (BSL) videos to help residents access important information about council services more easily.
The videos, commissioned by Sandwell Council and produced by Sandwell Deaf Community Association (SDCA) , cover a range of key topics including elections, benefits, housing, and council tax. They have been created to support Deaf communities by providing clear and accessible information in BSL, helping ensure residents can access services and information in the format that best meets their needs.
The new resources form part of the council’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Sandwell Council’s website is recognised as one of the most accessible local authority websites in the UK, meeting Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards and providing a wide range of accessible features for residents.
The addition of BSL content further strengthens the council’s commitment to ensuring information is available and accessible to everyone, regardless of communication needs.
Rashpal Bishop, Executive Director for Adult Social Care and Health, Sandwell Council, said: “At Sandwell Council, we are committed to making our services accessible to all residents. These new BSL videos are another important step in ensuring Deaf people can access information about key council services independently and confidently. We are proud of the accessibility standards of our website and continually look for ways to improve how we communicate with our diverse communities.”
New Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Ritchie Massey, said: “We want all residents to be able to access council information and services in a way that works for them. These new BSL videos are a fantastic example of how we are removing barriers and making our services more inclusive.”
Janine Lowe, CEO at SDCA, said: “We are delighted to work in partnership with Sandwell Council on this important project. Accessible communication is essential for creating inclusive communities, and these BSL videos will help ensure Deaf residents can access vital information in British Sign Language. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have across Sandwell.”
The BSL videos are available on the Sandwell Council website and can be accessed alongside existing information pages covering elections, benefits, housing, council tax and other council services.