Sandwell Council has launched a new series of British Sign Language (BSL) videos to help residents access important information about council services.

The videos were commissioned by Sandwell Council and produced by Sandwell Deaf Community Association (SDCA). They cover elections, benefits, housing, and council tax, providing clear and accessible information in BSL so Deaf residents can access services and information in their preferred format.

Website accessibility standards

Sandwell Council's website is recognised as one of the most accessible local authority websites in the UK, meeting Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards and offering a range of accessible features for residents. The addition of BSL content strengthens the council's commitment to ensuring information is available to everyone, regardless of communication needs.

What council leaders said

Rashpal Bishop, Executive Director for Adult Social Care and Health at Sandwell Council, said: "At Sandwell Council, we are committed to making our services accessible to all residents. These new BSL videos are another important step in ensuring Deaf people can access information about key council services independently and confidently."

Councillor Ritchie Massey, Cabinet member for Adult Services, Health and Wellbeing, added: "We want all residents to be able to access council information and services in a way that works for them. These new BSL videos are a fantastic example of how we are removing barriers and making our services more inclusive."

Janine Lowe, CEO at SDCA, said: "We are delighted to work in partnership with Sandwell Council on this important project. Accessible communication is essential for creating inclusive communities, and these BSL videos will help ensure Deaf residents can access vital information in British Sign Language."

How to access the videos

The BSL videos are available on the Sandwell Council website alongside existing information pages covering elections, benefits, housing, council tax and other council services. For more information, visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/bsl