100 Signs

Join us for an expert led session on key BSL signs that will help you better connect with Deaf people and those with hearing loss.

A young woman in a dark blue shirt, her hands in front using sign language gestures

To mark International Day of Sign Languages (23 September) we’d love you to join our free live webinar and take your first steps into British Sign Language (BSL). You'll learn practical signs, discover the importance of inclusive communication, and gain confidence communicating with people who are deaf or have hearing loss.

With 1 in 3 people in the UK affected by hearing loss, and an estimated 151,000 people using BSL, learning even a few signs can help break down communication barriers and make everyday interactions more accessible and welcoming. Whether at work, in your community or in daily life, you'll gain skills that can make a real difference.

What to expect

Our free, live 60-minute webinar takes place on 23 September at 11am, in celebration of the International Day of Sign Languages.

During the session, you'll

hear from members of the Hearing Dogs team,
BSL users partnered with hearing dogs,
explore deaf awareness,
learn from a qualified BSL teacher who will introduce you to practical signs you can start using straight away.

This introductory session is designed to kick-start your BSL journey. After the webinar, you'll receive a resource pack containing 100 BSL signs to help you continue learning, practise at your own pace, and build your confidence long after the session has finished.
Simply register online and we'll send you everything you need to join.

Sarah and Albert: Why BSL matters

A smiling young woman and a light coloured dog in a in a woodland with blue flowers on the ground.

Sarah was born profoundly deaf and uses British Sign Language (BSL) every day. Through Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, she was partnered with hearing dog Albert, who alerts her to important sounds and gives her greater confidence, independence and companionship.

For Sarah, BSL is about far more than communication.

"For me, BSL is much more than a language, it is part of my identity. It is who I am. I have used BSL throughout my life to express myself, communicate with others and connect with the Deaf community."

That's why she's passionate about helping more people learn BSL and understand the difference inclusive communication can make.

"Learning even a few BSL signs can make a real difference. Simple signs like 'hello' and 'thank you' may seem small, but they can help a Deaf person feel welcomed, valued and connected. Learning BSL helps break down communication barriers and makes everyday interactions more accessible and inclusive."

"Thank you for taking part in the 100 Signs course. I hope you enjoy learning your signs and feel inspired to keep practising and using them in everyday life after the course has finished. Together, we can make a real difference, one sign at a time."

Why 100 Signs matters for your organisation

Small changes in communication can make a big difference to colleagues, customers and communities affected by hearing loss.

Why it’s important

Create a more inclusive workplace for colleagues, customers and communities.
Build confidence communicating with people who are deaf or have hearing loss.
Support employee wellbeing by encouraging empathy, understanding and inclusion.
Demonstrate your organisation's commitment to accessibility and inclusive communication.
Join organisations across the UK celebrating International Day of Sign Languages.