Tim Scannell, Accessibility Consultant:

Enhancing Access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by Focusing on Sign Language, Digital Accessibility, and Information Access for Everyone.

Hearing-led control over Deaf Language and knowledge. Languages never colonised again. Over the past year, my research has explored how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming access to British Sign Language (BSL) . What I found confirms a critical truth: BSL is a living language , not just data, and its interface with AI is fundamentally about language power and equality. Too often, AI projects risk repeating historical mistakes—a pattern I call Digital Milan: Innovat

BSL is not for sale. This Deaf-led report advocates for ethical AI procurement that prioritises the protection of British Sign Language, respects Deaf culture, and ensures Deaf voices are at the forefront of the conversation. BSL is a human right - not a commodity. Full Report: https://lnkd.in/eru7cuXS British Deaf Association: https://lnkd.in/eRnEFW8s BSL and captions: https://lnkd.in/eSS6pYCE https://player.vimeo.com/video/1115461686?h=43f5b37999&dnt=1&app_id=122963 The r

Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued is more than just a nice idea - it’s essential for success. Whether you...

During my Deaf Awareness Training, many hearing people told me that they do not know how to use a hearing loop for questions and answers. I think it would be a good idea to create an e-learning tool for new staff and employees. This tool could explain how to use assistive listening devices, including how to arrange a remote interpreter call. It should include information about: what the service is, how deaf people access it, and why it is important. One of the most critical i

Accessibility is not a luxury- it is a legal, ethical, and human responsibility . BSL Act 2022: Recognises BSL as a language of England, Wales, and Scotland. Public services must integrate BSL in their communications. Equality Act 2010: Mandates reasonable adjustments in employment and services. Accessible Information Standard: Requires health and social care providers to deliver information in formats Deaf users can actually access. Yet, the Deaf community still waits. We

In recent years, companies have leaned on AI captions, auto-translations, and text-to-speech solutions for Deaf accessibility. While technology has potential, it cannot replace qualified human interpreters who understand nuance, culture, and context. Google Glass was a promising tool, but it’s been discontinued. Many companies now prioritise cheaper AI solutions over reliable, accurate sign language services - one-way communication. Even high-profile public events still offe