In recent months CV Life has given staff the opportunity to learn the basics of British Sign Language (BSL).
In partnership with Coventry City Council’s Adult Education Department, CV Life has hosted two free Sign Language Workshops which were made available to all our staff as part of our employee benefit opportunities
The initial session focussed on learning the basics of BSL and was followed up with a second session specifically targeted at key swimming teachers, lifeguards and Waterpark Supervisors. The workshop included signs for standard words and phrases you might hear at a pool.
It is hoped that by upskilling our workforce this way brings us a step closer to making our swimming pools, swimming lessons and other water associated activities more accessible to the deaf community – an important part of CV Life’s values of being inclusive to all.
The sessions were led by respected BSL teacher Katie Keil who led the participants through an introductory stage of BSL, starting with the basics of sign language, including how to sign the alphabet, greetings and introductions, and communication tips for the general public. Participants played learning games and undertook group work in an engaging and interactive lesson.
Rachel Melody Smith, CV Life’s Recruitment and Retention Officer, said: “We’re proud to provide staff benefits and learning opportunities like this for our staff. Learning British Sign Language is a step towards making sure all our members and visitors feel included and supported.
“This is just one way we can demonstrate our commitment to being accessible to everyone. These sessions are part of CV Life’s ongoing efforts to ensure its services meet the needs of the diverse communities in Coventry and visitors to the city.”
Rachael Smith, a CV Life swimming instructor who attended the BSL session, said: “It was really enlightening and really fun too. Swimming should be for everyone and we need to do our best to make sure we’re making our pools accessible and safe for all.
“We’ve picked up some really helpful expressions and words which are really relevant so I look forward to continuing to learn and using BSL when required.”
Our own Strategy Director Jane Murphy attended the first session. Jane said: “The BSL session was completely absorbing, and not only did it teach you BSL skills, it created awareness of what we can do to better understand those that are hearing impaired and the challenges they can face. In addition to the new skills, seeing everyone in the group supporting each other to learn was another winning moment for me. I felt privileged to be included in the session. “