Safeguarding in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “safeguarding” in British Sign Language (BSL) conveys the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly within the context of social care, education, and community support. This sign is commonly used in discussions about policies and practices that ensure safety and well-being, especially for children and those with disabilities in the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Safeguarding” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like the ‘B’ handshape) facing downwards.
2. Position your hand near your chest, at about shoulder height.
3. Move your hand forward and slightly away from your body, as if you are creating a protective barrier.
4. While moving your hand, use a serious facial expression to convey the importance of safeguarding.
5. Finish with your hand slightly forward in the space in front of you, indicating a sense of ongoing protection.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use a serious facial expression, which is essential to convey the gravity of the topic.
• Not maintaining the correct handshape; using a different shape can change the meaning.
• Incorrectly positioning the hand too low or too far back, losing the emphasis on protection.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “safeguarding” focuses on the handshape and the movement that represents protection. In contrast, American Sign Language (ASL) may use different handshapes and movements that reflect their own cultural context and understanding of safeguarding, which might not directly correlate with BSL.

Related Signs

• 1 – Used for counting or indicating a single item.
• 10 – Represents the number ten in various contexts.
• 100 – Sign for one hundred, often used in numerical discussions.
• 11 – The sign for eleven, useful in counting.
• 12 – Represents the number twelve, commonly used in everyday conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “safeguarding” in a BSL sentence?

You can use the sign in sentences like “We need to focus on safeguarding our children,” which emphasizes the topic of safeguarding.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

The sign for “safeguarding” is generally consistent across the UK, but some regions may have slight variations in movement or emphasis.

What are similar signs to “safeguarding”?

Signs like “protection,” “safety,” and “care” are related and often used in similar contexts.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your facial expressions and hand positions, and consider recording yourself to review your signing.

Can I use this sign in a professional setting?

Yes, it is appropriate to use this sign in meetings, trainings, and conversations focusing on safeguarding policies.

Is the concept of safeguarding different in Deaf culture?

While the fundamental idea of safeguarding remains the same, the cultural context and community practices in the Deaf community may influence its application.

How is this sign taught in BSL classes?

In BSL classes, instructors often use visual aids, demonstrations, and role-playing to teach the sign effectively.