Thank you for reaching out to me and sharing your concerns regarding free British Sign Language (BSL) classes for families with deaf children.

As a parent myself, I understand the importance of effective communication within the family and the impact it has on a child's development and well-being. I want to assure you that I share your commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all members of our society.

I am pleased to inform you that significant progress has been made in promoting the use of BSL and recognising it as a language in its own right. The recent passage of the British Sign Language Act, spearheaded by Daisy Cooper MP, signifies a milestone in our efforts to remove barriers faced by the deaf community. This legislation not only acknowledges BSL as a language of England, Wales, and Scotland but also places responsibilities on relevant government departments to promote and facilitate its use in their communications with the public.

The Act further places a requirement on the DWP Secretary of State to issue guidance to departments on the promotion and facilitation of BSL. The DWP has established the BSL Advisory Board so that BSL signers can advise on the implementation of the Act and, in doing so, bring together their lived experience from across England, Wales and Scotland.

However, it is clear that more needs to be done to support families with deaf children, in providing accessible and affordable BSL classes. I understand that parents should not be burdened with the financial responsibility of learning sign language to communicate effectively with their children, particularly in a time when many families are already facing financial difficulties.

Thank you again for all those who reached out to me.