University alumna plays leading role in landmark Sign Languages legislation

A University graduate has played a pivotal role in the development of sign language provision in Northern Ireland, following the passing of the Sign Languages Bill at Stormont on 28 April 2026.

Sally Gillespie, who completed a BA (Hons) Interpreting BSL/English at the University from 2007 to 2010, graduating with a first-class degree, is now at the forefront of efforts to expand access to sign language interpreting and education.

After graduating, Sally secured an in-house interpreting role with Deaf Action in Edinburgh-even before completing her degree - supported by lecturer John Hay. At the time, structured employment opportunities for interpreters in Northern Ireland were limited, and Sally chose to build her experience in a supported environment as a Registered Trainee Interpreter.

She later returned to Northern Ireland to undertake a PhD at Queen’s University Belfast, which she completed in 2018, while simultaneously establishing her freelance interpreting career.

In 2024, Sally was approached to develop a new MA Interpreting (Signed Languages) programme at Queen’s University Belfast. She has since led the design and delivery of the course alongside her professional interpreting work, with the first cohort of students due to graduate this year.

The programme has been funded by the Department for Communities as part of a wider initiative to strengthen the rights of sign language users - work that culminated in the passing of the Sign Languages Bill.

Sally witnessed the historic moment at Stormont and interpreted for Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA as he met with members of the sign language community.

The legislation marks a significant shift in how sign languages are recognised in Northern Ireland. Unlike comparable laws elsewhere in the UK, the Bill establishes language and cultural rights, rather than positioning sign language solely within disability legislation. This approach extends protections to all sign language users, regardless of medical diagnosis.

Key provisions include granting parents of deaf children the right to access sign language classes, helping to support communication and inclusion from an early stage.

Speaking in the Assembly, Gordon Lyons MLA said:
“As we look ahead to implementation, I want to be clear that the Bill is not the end of the journey. It is a significant step forward, but it is also a foundation. My Department will continue to work with colleagues across government and with stakeholders to ensure that recognition of sign language translates into lasting, positive change.”

Reflecting on her career and involvement in this transformative period, Sally said:
“Interpreting has always been my passion, and it is incredibly rewarding to see growing recognition of sign languages and the communities that use them. This legislation gives visibility, validation and rights to a rich and vibrant language community that is too often misunderstood.”

The University of Wolverhampton continues to take pride in the achievements of its graduates, whose expertise and commitment are helping to shape more inclusive societies both nationally and internationally.

Photo caption: Sally Gillespie, interprets in BSL as Gordon Lyons MLA as he speaks to the cameras