Safeguarding in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

“Safeguarding” in Auslan conveys the concept of protecting or ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals or communities. Commonly featured in conversations about child safety, community initiatives, and personal safety practices, this sign represents a dedication to fostering a secure environment for all.

How to Sign “Safeguarding”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flattened “B” shape (palm facing down).
2. Place the edge of your dominant hand at the center of your chest.
3. Slowly move your hand outward and slightly upward, as if you are pushing away an invisible barrier.
4. Maintain a serious yet caring facial expression throughout the sign to convey the importance of safety and care.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use a facial expression that reflects concern or care, which is essential for conveying the sign’s meaning.
• Using a flat hand instead of the correct “B” handshape, which can alter the clarity of the sign.
• Not moving the hand outward enough, leading to a misunderstanding of the protective action being described.

Related Signs

• 1 – Represents the number one in ASL.
• 100 – Represents the number one hundred in ASL.
• 10 – Represents the number ten in ASL.
• 15 – Represents the number fifteen in ASL.
• 1 Dollar – Sign used to refer to one dollar in monetary terms.

Using “Safeguarding” in Everyday Conversations

The sign for “safeguarding” is often used in discussions about protecting individuals, especially children or vulnerable members of the community. Here are a few example sentences where you might incorporate this sign:

1. “We need to focus on safeguarding our children in schools.” — This might come up during a meeting discussing school policies.
2. “The organisation prioritises safeguarding vulnerable adults.” — This could be used in conversations about support services.
3. “Safeguarding is essential in our community programs.” — This would be relevant in planning community events.

In these situations, using the sign for “safeguarding” helps convey the importance of protection and care within various contexts.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, safeguarding reflects a broader cultural emphasis on community well-being and support. The concept often ties into the values of inclusion and respect for all individuals, particularly those who are at risk. Advocacy for safeguarding policies is a common topic, especially in contexts related to education and social services.

While Auslan is relatively unified across Australia, some regional variations may exist, particularly in more nuanced aspects of signs. It’s worth noting that in some northern areas, the sign may incorporate a slightly different movement or facial expression, reflecting local dialects. Engaging with local Deaf communities can provide insight into these variations and enhance your understanding of the sign in context.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign for “safeguarding,” try the following techniques:

• Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror and practice the sign. This allows you to observe your own hand shapes and movements, ensuring accuracy.
• Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language that accompany the sign. These non-manual features add meaning and context.
• Use in Short Signed Sentences: Incorporate “safeguarding” in various sentences to build familiarity. Practice with a partner or record yourself signing to track progress.

By using these strategies, you can enhance your recall and fluency with the sign, making it a natural part of your Auslan vocabulary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use “safeguarding” in a sentence?

Yes! For example, you can say, “We are focusing on safeguarding children in our community.”

Are there regional variations of this sign?

Yes, some regions may have slight variations in handshape or movement. It’s always good to learn from local Deaf communities.

Is there a sign similar to “safeguarding” in BSL?

BSL has its own signs for concepts similar to safeguarding, but they may differ in execution and meaning. It’s best to consult a BSL resource for accuracy.

What are some teaching tips for this sign?

Practice the sign in context with real-life scenarios. Encourage facial expressions to enhance understanding.

Are there similar signs to “safeguarding”?

Yes, signs for “protect,” “care,” and “safety” can be related and are useful in discussions about wellbeing.

How can I improve my signing skills?

Engage with the Deaf community through events or classes, and practice regularly with peers.