Description

ID: The front page of an official print copy of the British Sign Language Act, which reads ‘British Sign Language Act 2022’ beneath a black and white coat of arms of the United Kingdom. This is the same mark which can be seen on all UK Government documents. It has a note that reads: 'Explanatory Notes have been produced to assist in the understanding of this Act and are available separately'.

The British Sign Language Act is an act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, which legally recognises British Sign Language (BSL) as a language in England, Scotland and Wales. It also provides guidance to government departments and public bodies on how to meet the needs of people who use BSL as their first or preferred language.

This copy belonged to Rosie Cooper, who was MP for West Lancashire from 2005 to 2022, and a member of the Liverpool City Council from 1973-2003.

Rosie has dedicated her career to advocating for the rights of D/deaf people, both those she represented locally and nationwide. She worked alongside the British Deaf Association to campaign for the British Sign Language Bill (which became the Act) in parliament. Rosie is a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) and considers BSL as her first language.

When the Bill was read out in parliament in 2022, Rosie closed her First Speech by acknowledging the huge impact that the Deaf Community and BSL have had on her life:

“I want to thank the Deaf Community, and most of all, my brilliant parents, for everything they have given me in life- a family, a culture and a rich language.”