A NEW British Sign Language Bill that will see it become a recognised language has gained support from Hexham's MP.

British Sign Language is relied on by 250,000 Britons to communicate with others, using a combination of hand gestures, facial expressions and body language to convey meaning.

A Private Member's Bill, introduced by Rosie Cooper MP, signals promotion and facilitation of British Sign Language when making public service announcements, and encourages other service providers to do the same.

If the Bill is passed, it would trigger the launch of an advisory board of British Sign Language users, who would offer guidance to the Department for Work and Pensions on how and when to use it.

The board would also examine how the Department for Work and Pensions tries to increase the number of British Sign Language interpretors, and would make sure the Access to Work scheme better meets the needs of British Sign Language users to support them in employment.

Guy Opperman, MP for Tynedale and Hexham, said: "Effective communication is vital to creating a more inclusive and accessible society across Tynedale and Ponteland and in the UK.

"Legally recognising British Sign Language in Great Britain is a significant step towards ensuring that deaf people are not excluded from reaching their potential."