Deaf Student Wins Legal Battle for BSL Interpreter in School

A 16-year-old student from Glenrothes, Niamdh Braid, has successfully challenged Fife Council in a legal battle to secure a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter for her education. 

Fighting for Education Rights

Born deaf, Niamdh relies on hearing aids but struggles in noisy environments. Her preferred language is British Sign Language (BSL). Without an interpreter, she found it difficult to keep up with lessons, often feeling isolated and exhausted.

"At the end of the school day, I'm so tired. Sometimes, I have to leave class to take a break because it's just too much," she shared.

Limited Deaf Support in Schools

Auchmuty High School, where Niamdh is an S5 pupil, has teachers for the deaf, but their qualifications only require BSL Level 3, whereas a BSL interpreter must have at least Level 6 proficiency. Despite requests from Niamdh and her parents, the school and Fife Council initially denied her access to an interpreter.

Legal Battle and Tribunal Ruling

With financial support from the National Deaf Children’s Society, Niamdh took legal action against Fife Council. In a tribunal ruling last year, the decision stated that she was at a "substantial disadvantage" without an advanced BSL interpreter, placing her at risk of isolation and withdrawal.

The tribunal found Fife Council’s BSL provision inadequate, with support only up to Level 2. Despite initially appealing the decision, Fife Council’s case was rejected in December, and they have now agreed to recruit a qualified BSL interpreter for Niamdh’s National Qualification classes.

A Step Forward for Deaf Students

Fife Council’s Head of Education Services, Angela Logue, stated, "We have been working closely with Niamdh and her family to meet her needs as identified by the tribunal."

Niamdh’s father, Steve Braid, expressed his frustration at the lengthy battle: "It's disgusting that we've had to fight so hard. Many families don’t realize what they’re entitled to or don’t have the resources to fight. I'm incredibly proud of Niamdh for standing up for her rights."

Calls for Wider Reform

Mark Ballard, head of policy at the National Deaf Children’s Society, emphasized the need for systemic change: "Deaf children can easily disappear into the background in classrooms. Local authorities across Scotland must ensure proper support, rather than forcing families to go through tribunals for basic educational rights."

Looking Ahead

The ruling ensures that Fife Council will now provide BSL interpretation for Niamdh, but her case highlights broader inequalities in access to education for deaf students. Advocacy groups are urging other councils to take proactive measures rather than forcing families into legal battles for fundamental rights.

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