Implementing our British Sign Language Plan 2024-30
Theme 8: Democratic participation
Our aim is for BSL users to be fully involved in democratic and public life in Edinburgh, as active and informed citizens, as voters, as elected politicians and as board members of our public bodies.
For each of the actions below, we've set milestones and highlighted any resource issues. We've also identified who will lead on delivering the action.
Read about the actions we're proposing for this theme
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Action |
Milestones with dates Phase 1: 2024-2026 |
Resource implications |
Lead Service Area Lead Officer |
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1. Develop a page on elections on the Council’s website which will provide a comprehensive overview of the support available for people to vote including providing links to information or video material about ‘what will happen at the polling station’ on your website, as printed material provided to relevant groups or at the polling station for reference (including the requirement to show photo ID when it applies) including in British Sign Language (YouTube) |
By June 2025: Review current pages and develop further content (Accessibility at polling stations); Commission a video re BSL
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Elections & Members Services Manager |
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2. Ensuring people can vote: improve the information and support that BSL users might need to vote from the point of registering to vote, receiving and completing a postal vote right through to attending a polling staiton to vote. |
During mid 2025: Engage with disability groups mid 2025 to prepare for 2026 Scottish Parliament elections |
The Electoral Commission provide information for our websites covering registration to vote and how to vote using BSL videos
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Elections & Members Services Manager |
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3. Support BSL users as candidates, agents and other stakeholders and ensure that nomination packs signpost candidates towards the financial support available via Inclusion Scotland’s Access to Elected Office Fund. |
By end November 2025 Ahead of 2026 elections |
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Elections & Members Services Manager |
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4. Support Elected Members who are BSL users through our normal HR support processes and through the Access to Work initiative from the DWP. |
Ongoing: as detailed in the Elected Members Handbook, processes are in place re support available (reasonable adjustments, additional support and access to work scheme funded by DWP) |
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Democratic Services Manager |
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5. Ensure that all staff involved in elections are trained and familiar with the support measures available and can advise or signpost the voter, supporting organisation, or carer, as appropriate to need. |
Ongoing: staff training is provided for staff involved in the election available via video (LD, sight loss) By June 2025: Commission a video re BSL |
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Elections & Members Services Manager |
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6. Explore opportunities for politicians to speak to members of the BSL community e.g. through “open table” meetings hosted by the Council Leader. |
By April 2025: arrange the first meeting with Elected Members, and agree approach to future meeting re frequency etc |
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Lead Officer – Equalities, Policy and Insight |