This is amazing news! After a 10-year programme of research confirming that there are no barriers to deaf people serving as jurors when working with sign language interpreters, we have now seen legislative change in Australia, Ireland and England!
The Ministry of Justice have just announced the following information:
"Amending the common law to permit British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters in the jury room during deliberations.
Find out more about the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/justice-overhaul-to-better-protect-the-public-and-back-our-police"
The Official Twitter channel of the Department for Work and Pensions Press Office has tweeted this morning:
We are very pleased to read that Sign Language Interpreters will be allowed in deliberations, expanding the pool of jurors and making the courts more inclusive.
Watch this BSL video from the British Deaf Association:
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