Holly’s work for the deaf

Fulton MacGregor praised a young constituent for her campaigning work on deaf awareness as the Scottish Parliament introduced a new sign language plan.

The new 70-point nationwide strategy, the first in the UK, aims to ensure that sign language users are fully involved in all aspects of daily life.

It includes provision for information to be provided in British Sign Language (BSL) at major transport hubs, and sign language interpreters becoming more widely available across public services, making it easier for deaf people to hold senior positions.

Welcoming the news at Holyrood, Mr MacGregor mentioned the work done by university student Holly Kinsella in progressing the case for sign language users.

Mr MacGregor said: “Holly was my local hero at the opening of parliament shortly after I was elected. She has never wavered in her pursuit of equality for BSL users and this will be a very special moment for her.

“I’m delighted that this strategy has been launched and I know how much it means to those who use BSL as their main language – and I’ll continue to monitor with interest these ambitious plans.”

Holly is an active campaigner on deaf awareness and has worked with the National Deaf Children’s Society to highlight issues affecting young people.

She helped create a survey through her work with the organisation, gathering support for sign language to be taught in schools; and was in attendance when Holyrood’s landmark BSL act was passed.