BSL asthma information launched
12 May 2008

Asthma UK has launched British Sign Language (BSL) video clips on its website, along with a free BSL DVD featuring common questions and answers, in a move to make its information more accessible to the deaf community.

Asthma UK believes that over 20,000 BSL users receiving treatment for asthma will benefit from the resources.

Kate Taylor, Community Development and Volunteering Officer at Asthma UK, said: ‘This initiative is part of Asthma UK’s commitment to working towards equal access to health information for deaf people.

'The DVD and website translate the most common questions we get asked and they are valuable resources to help deaf people with asthma to better understand the condition and be able to manage their asthma symptoms more confidently.’

The move has also been praised by the British Deaf Association (BDA). Francis Murphy, BDA Chair, said: ‘Deaf people have a right to equal access to health information. The BSL resources Asthma UK has introduced go some way to addressing the imbalance in access to healthcare and the BDA encourages similar organisations not to overlook BSL in their commitment to diversity and access to products, services and opportunities.’

In addition, the Asthma UK Adviceline is staffed by trained asthma nurses, who can be contacted by Typetalk or e-mail.

To order a free copy of the DVD call Asthma UK's Supporter and Information Team on 08456 03 81 43 or email info@asthma.org.uk.