Hello and welcome to the University of Sunderland Sign Language Society! We're thrilled to introduce British Sign Language to our university community. Whether you're completely new to sign language or already have some experience, joining our society will provide incredible opportunities to learn and engage with this beautiful language.
Our society is led by a dedicated committee of members passionate about spreading awareness and appreciation for British Sign Language. We offer a range of activities and events designed to help you learn and practice sign language in a fun and supportive environment.
Whether you're interested in learning the basics, improving your skills, or simply want to connect with others who share your interest in sign language, there's something for everyone in our society.
Stay tuned for more information on our upcoming events and how you can get involved. We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant sign language community at the University of Sunderland!
Why learn?:
British Sign Language (BSL) stands as the predominant form of sign language across the United Kingdom, with a vast community of over 150,000 individuals utilizing it as their primary means of communication. Unlike spoken languages, BSL relies on visual cues, encompassing facial expressions, gestures, and distinct handshapes to convey meaning and facilitate interaction.
While BSL traditionally serves the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.We firmly advocate for the widespread adoption of sign language proficiency, recognizing its inherent value in fostering inclusivity and bridging communication barriers. Embracing even a fundamental understanding of sign language empowers individuals to engage meaningfully with those who rely on BSL as their primary language, fostering connections and understanding across diverse linguistic communities.
Classes:
Beginner Lesson (General):
The committee members conduct BSL Level 1 complimentary beginner's lessons on a bi-weekly basis. These sessions focus on fundamental vocabulary, ensuring that everyone has the chance to grasp the essentials of BSL.
Beginner Lesson (Medical):
Our committee members, who are also healthcare professionals, offer complimentary beginner's BSL lessons on a bi-weekly basis. These sessions are tailored to equip medical professionals with basic BSL vocabulary and expressions essential for effective communication with Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients.
Events:
Student membership is £2.
External Membership is £3.
Society memberships expire on the 31st of July 2024.
By purchasing a society membership, you agree to the Terms and Conditions (see above).
Contact us:
Email: sununi.signlanguagesociety@gmail.com
Committee
Ethan Bennett
President
Ashley Hadfield
Treasurer
Society Members Code of Conduct
A society member is anyone who has purchased membership to a particular society registered with Your SU.
All society members will
Be inclusive; free from racism, classism, sexism, ageism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, body shaming, xenophobia and religious discrimination.
Respect the rights of others to express, within the law, their beliefs and convictions.
Be positive ambassadors for the SU and the University and will uphold, and not bring into question or disrepute, the reputation of the SU, University, or any society.
Not partake in initiations and report any such activities and unacceptable behaviours to Your SU.
Treat facilities, staff and students at the University, and other individuals and organisations, with respect, abiding by any rules that may apply and any agreements that have been made with them, including the society’s committee.
Ensure that all media, including digital and print, is free from material that could be deemed offensive or in breach of the law.
Act respectfully regarding the taking and using of photographs and filming.
Follow the SU’s financial and administrative processes and accept liability for any losses incurred as a result of not following the correct financial procedures of the SU.
Not raise money for a charity other than the SU without the prior agreement of the SU.
Not enter into any contracts, sponsorship agreements or orders without SU agreement.
Ensure that the finances of the society are used only to benefit our members and no individual member shall receive financial gain from the society’s activities.
Ensure that society committee members are selected fairly in line with SU guidance and as outlined within this document.
Comply with the Freedom of Speech policies of the University.
Act within the law.
Accept that the SU may take action or un-register the society if we fail to comply with this Code of Conduct.
