Whose needs come first? When CSWs put their own learning before Deaf clients

There’s one situation that should never happen, yet we know it does: A Communication Support Worker (CSW) insisting they only want to work with a Deaf person who has “good enough BSL”, or even worse, asking for a Deaf client with stronger signing skills so they can improve their own practice.

Let’s be clear: this is unacceptable.

The role of a CSW is to provide access. To remove barriers in education, training, or the workplace. To empower Deaf people to fully participate.

It is not to turn the Deaf client into a teacher.

It is not to pick and choose who is “good enough” to support.

And it is definitely not to make the session about your own learning.

When a CSW behaves this way, the message to the Deaf client is loud and clear: “Your needs come second. My practice comes first.” That is disempowering and unprofessional.

Professional boundaries matter

Just as BSL interpreters must carefully represent their clients without letting their own choices shape the message, CSWs must respect boundaries. In our blog More Than Words: Representation, Trust and the Role of BSL Interpreters, we explore how trust and respect are at the heart of communication support. The same applies here: the CSW is not the focus — the Deaf client is.

Want to improve your BSL? Do it the right way

Of course, every CSW should be developing their skills. Fluency and confidence come with practice, but the classroom or workplace isn’t the place to get it. That’s the Deaf client’s time, and their right to access.

There are so many positive ways to build your BSL without putting that burden on your clients:

✔️ Join Deaf community centres and clubs

✔️ Take part in Deaf-led workshops and events

✔️ Volunteer with Deaf charities and groups

✔️ Watch BSL Zone, Deaf-led YouTube channels, and livestreams

✔️ Seek mentoring or peer feedback with other professionals

These are the spaces to grow. The classroom or workplace is the Deaf client’s space.

By being a CSW you're creating access, not collecting practice hours. If you ever find yourself tempted to put your own learning before your client’s needs, take a step back and remember: your role is to support, not to be supported.

Because when CSWs keep boundaries clear, everyone wins.