BSL Storytelling

Keeping Our Home Accessible – Christmas Lift Appeal For generations, our building on Albany Street has been the beating heart of the deaf community and our home since 1891. It has witnessed deaf couples sign “I do” in our Church, countless blethers in the garden tended by incredible volunteers, unforgettable late-night BSL karaoke in the Blackwood Bar, and quiet afternoons in the Brennan Library for book lovers and students alike. This place holds history, stories, and community spirit in every corner. It is a welcoming space for everyone. Deaf people, BSL learners, hearing parents of deaf children, friends, allies, and visitors from around the world. Each year we welcome thousands of people through our doors to learn, celebrate, connect, and belong. However, we now face a challenge. Our external lift, essential for wheelchair users and anyone unable to use the stairs, has broken beyond repair. Full access is not optional for us; it is fundamental to who we are. Being able to welcome everyone into our building is at the heart of our mission. We have secured planning permission from the City of Edinburgh Council and placed an order for a brand-new lift. The cost is £13,421.75, and while we are determined to do this as quickly as possible, it is a significant expense we cannot meet alone. This is where we need your support. By donating or by choosing a Pay What You Can ticket, you are helping us keep our home open, inclusive, and fully accessible for all. Every contribution brings us one step closer to restoring equal access to our historic building. Thank you for being part of our community. We wish you a warm and happy festive season, and we look forward to welcoming you back through fully accessible doors as soon as we can.

Keeping Our Home Accessible – Christmas Lift Appeal For generations, our building on Albany Street has been the beating heart of the deaf community and our home since 1891. It has witnessed deaf couples sign “I do” in our Church, countless blethers in the garden tended by incredible volunteers, unforgettable late-night BSL karaoke in the Blackwood Bar, and quiet afternoons in the Brennan Library for book lovers and students alike. This place holds history, stories, and community spirit in every corner. It is a welcoming space for everyone. Deaf people, BSL learners, hearing parents of deaf children, friends, allies, and visitors from around the world. Each year we welcome thousands of people through our doors to learn, celebrate, connect, and belong. However, we now face a challenge. Our external lift, essential for wheelchair users and anyone unable to use the stairs, has broken beyond repair. Full access is not optional for us; it is fundamental to who we are. Being able to welcome everyone into our building is at the heart of our mission. We have secured planning permission from the City of Edinburgh Council and placed an order for a brand-new lift. The cost is £13,421.75, and while we are determined to do this as quickly as possible, it is a significant expense we cannot meet alone. This is where we need your support. By donating or by choosing a Pay What You Can ticket, you are helping us keep our home open, inclusive, and fully accessible for all. Every contribution brings us one step closer to restoring equal access to our historic building. Thank you for being part of our community. We wish you a warm and happy festive season, and we look forward to welcoming you back through fully accessible doors as soon as we can.