Deaf Awareness Training and British Sign Language for the Welsh Screen Sector

Author: Media Cymru

Applications close: Monday16 March 2026

3-part in-person course in BSL and deaf awareness, designed to equip participants with the essential BSL skills and awareness they need to communicate with deaf and/or hard of hearing cast, crew and contributors whilst working on productions.

Course Details:

According to RNID, in Wales, there are around 575,500 deaf and hard of hearing people, with an estimated 7,200 using British Sign Language (BSL) as their preferred language.

Media Cymru is offering an intensive, IN-PERSON, 3-session training course in British Sign Language (BSL) and deaf awareness, designed to equip screen sector practitioners with the essential BSL skills and awareness they need to communicate with deaf and/or hard of hearing cast, crew and contributors whilst working on productions.

Attendees will learn BSL basics through new resources developed in collaboration with Deaf Friendly tailored especially for the screen sector environment.

Each of the three sessions will be trainer-led, with fun and informal practice and will always have a trainer and interpreter present for support.

The training also enhances visual communication skills which are vital in the creative industries. But also, so often critical on location, on set and in studio, where silence (off camera) is golden.

This course is being delivered by Deaf Friendly and funded by Media Cymru.

Key Benefits:

• Delivered by local deaf professionals with media experience and expertise

• Hands-on and repeated immersive learning

• Aligns with equality, diversity and inclusion goals

• Helps productions – and people – become more accessible and inclusive.

Follow on Support:

Progression routes include e-learning and formal BSL qualifications offered through Deaf Friendly’s sister company, Premier BSL Ltd.

We believe the screen sector has a unique opportunity to lead the way in normalising and championing deafness and improving accessibility. Moreover, foster a more inclusive, visually aware and welcoming working culture.

BSL is more than just a language – it’s about building confidence and connection in everyday life.

Course Tutor

This course will be delivered by Sarah Lawrence, a respected Wales-based deaf professional, with over 30 years’ experience. Sarah specialises in BSL and Deaf Awareness training. And has extensive experience in TV & Film, having worked on shows like Dr Who, Casualty, Dope Girls and Falling. Sarah’s unique experience in TV as an in-vision BSL translator and interpreter adds significant authenticity to Deaf Friendly’s training support.

Who can apply? 

This course is open to any Welsh or Wales-based screen sector professional working – or actively seeking work – in the screen sector (Film, TV, Games, Animation, VFX, Post-production and Commercial).

This course is particularly relevant to anyone who is experiencing hearing loss themselves – or actively working with – or committed to working with – deaf or hard of hearing work colleagues, crew, cast and/or contributors.

No prior knowledge of BSL is required.

When and where? 

We ask that you ensure, you can commit to all the following in-person training dates, at a central Cardiff location:

Saturday 18th April, 1000-1300

Saturday 25th April, 1000-1800

Saturday 2nd May, 1000-1800

Places are provided free of charge but are worth a considerable amount. Please only apply if you can commit to attending every session.

Application deadline 1200 Monday 16 March 2026

Successful applicants will be notified by Friday 20 March 2026

Access and Accessibility

If you have any specific requirements that would make this application more accessible to you (such as advice, scribing or reading support) or would like this application in an alternative format (video or audio formats, audio narration, large font, plain text, or alternative language) please email media.cymru@southwales.ac.uk

Any questions? 

If you have any questions, please contact:  media.cymru@southwales.ac.uk

Learn more: https://media.cymru/funding/deaf-awareness-training-and-british-sign-language-for-the-welsh-screen-sector/