Mastering Multichannel Signs – Enhancing Clarity & Expression

Multichannel signs are a key feature of fluent BSL, allowing interpreters and translators to communicate several layers of meaning at once. Using these signs well helps make your work clearer, more natural, and closer to the way Deaf people use BSL in everyday life. To do this confidently, you’ll need to understand not just handshapes, but how to bring together movement, facial expression, space, and body language in your interpreting or translation.

This practical 4-hour workshop with Deaf linguist and trainer Gavin Lilley will break down the basics of multichannel signs and how to use them effectively. Through demonstrations, hands-on activities, and discussion, you’ll have the chance to build your skills and explore how multichannel signs can improve your everyday work.

What We’ll Cover:

• What multichannel signs are and their place in BSL grammar and structure

• Tips for creating clear, expressive interpretations that feel natural to your audience

• How to use multichannel signs in both live interpreting and translation work

• Common pitfalls to watch out for, and how to avoid them

Who is this for?This course is for BSL interpreters and translators working in any domain—community, education, health, legal, or media—who want to add more depth and clarity to their work. Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, you’ll pick up practical tools you can use right away.

Why Take Part?

• Practical, interactive activities

• Learn directly from Gavin’s experience as a Deaf linguist and trainer

• Space for questions, feedback, and discussion

• Strengthen your CPD and keep your practice current

Details:

Trainer: Gavin Lilley

Duration: 4 hours

CPD Points: 4 Structured

Language: BSL

Participation: Active

Recording: Not available