Preserving Our Past, Inspiring Our Future
The British Deaf Association (BDA) and the British Deaf History Society (BDHS) are pleased to confirm a new partnership for the long-term safeguarding of Deaf heritage in the UK. From December 2025, the Deaf Heritage Centre — based at Manchester Deaf Centre — will become part of the BDA’s national heritage programme, ensuring that the history, stories, and achievements of Deaf people continue to be preserved, celebrated, and shared with future generations. This transition marks a collaborative step forward for Deaf heritage, bringing together the strengths of both organisations to protect and grow the museum for decades to come
Honouring the Legacy of the BDHS
For almost twenty years, the BDHS has been the beating heart of Deaf history. Since opening the museum in 2006, its members and volunteers have worked tirelessly to collect and safeguard invaluable artefacts, artworks, photographs, and archives that document Deaf life across the UK.
We extend a special tribute to Peter Jackson, whose leadership and lifelong commitment to protecting Deaf heritage has been exceptional. In recognition of his contribution, Peter will become Honorary Curator of the Deaf Heritage Centre, continuing to guide and inspire the next phase of development.
The Next Chapter: BDA’s Vision for Deaf Heritage
The Deaf Heritage Centre will play a central role in the BDA’s growing commitment to Deaf culture, history, identity and British Sign Language (BSL) as a living heritage.
Our vision is to create a vibrant, accessible, and modern museum that connects past and present — celebrating the richness of Deaf experience while inspiring future generations of Deaf signers to take pride in their culture.
Planned developments include:
- Expanding digital access and online exhibitions
- Developing educational resources for schools, colleges, and universities
- Launching new community-curated exhibitions
- Building partnerships with museums and archives across the UK
- Creating a long-term safeguarding and conservation plan for the collection
Community at the Heart
Deaf heritage belongs to the whole community.
As part of this transition, the BDA will work closely with BDHS members, volunteers, Deaf historians, and the wider Deaf community to ensure that the museum continues to reflect the voices, experiences, and creativity of Deaf people.
A special event was held on Friday 5 December 2025 at the Deaf Heritage Centre, Manchester Deaf Centre, to mark this important moment and celebrate the partnership between BDHS and BDA.
Statement from Rebecca Mansell, BDA Chief Executive
“This is an incredibly meaningful and emotional moment for the Deaf community.
For nearly two decades, the BDHS has played a vital role in safeguarding our shared heritage, and we are humbled to continue this important work alongside them.Our commitment is to ensure that Deaf culture and history not only endure, but flourish — as a living, evolving story that informs, enriches, and inspires generations to come.”
Statement from Peter Jackson, Honorary Curator
“It has been my life’s work to protect the stories and artefacts that reflect who we are as Deaf people. I am pleased that the BDA will now lead the next phase of this journey. Together, we will ensure that the museum continues to grow and that our Deaf heritage remains safeguarded for future generations.
The BDHS will continue to fulfil its charitable mission by writing and publishing Deaf history, and by hosting conferences and workshops. We look forward to a strong and collaborative partnership with the BDA as we work to preserve and promote Deaf history.”
Get Involved
This is just the beginning of a new journey for Deaf heritage in the UK — and we want you to be part of it.
We’ll be sharing updates over the coming months about volunteering opportunities, events, and how you can help support the development of the Deaf Heritage Centre.