Why Have In Vision Signers?

Posted On 02/02/2026

By Nikki Wordsmith
hello@nikkiwordsmith.com 
WhatsApp: 07905 456704

It’s a really common question, and the short answer is: not all deaf people find captions (subtitles) easy or natural to follow, especially if their first language is sign language like BSL (British Sign Language) rather than English.

Many deaf people—particularly those who are pre-lingually deaf (born deaf or lost hearing very early)—grow up with BSL as their native/first language. English (written or spoken) is often learned as a second language, sometimes with delays or gaps because of limited early language access. For them, reading fast-moving captions feels like trying to follow a foreign language at high speed, especially with:

• Complex sentences, idioms, slang, or fast dialogue.
• Complicated grammar, professional terms, or wordplay that doesn’t translate directly.
• The need to constantly switch mental gears from visual signing (their natural mode) to reading text.

Sign language interpreters convey the full message in BSL—including tone, emotion, emphasis, sarcasm, and who’s speaking—through facial expressions, body language, and hand movements. Captions are just words on screen; they miss a lot of that richness and nuance. An interpreter can also make it clearer who’s talking in group scenes, add character-specific flair, and keep the pace natural.

Other practical issues with captions include:

• They can be inaccurate (especially on live TV or with accents/background noise).
• They scroll quickly, which is hard if reading fluency in English isn’t strong.
• They don’t capture non-verbal sounds, tone of voice, or urgency as vividly.

That said, preferences vary hugely:

• People who became deaf later in life (post-lingually deaf) often prefer captions because English is their first language, and they may not use BSL fluently (or at all).
• Some deaf viewers like both options when available.
• Others are fine with captions alone, especially if they’re strong readers.

In the UK, broadcasters provide in-vision BSL interpreters on certain programmes (news, some dramas, public service stuff) precisely because BSL is a recognised language for a big part of the Deaf community (around 87,000+ users), and subtitles alone aren’t full access for everyone. It’s about linguistic equality, not just “hearing loss workaround.”

The best setup is often both captions and a signer—then people can choose what works for them. It’s similar to how subtitles help non-native English speakers, but sign language gives native access to those whose primary language is visual and spatial.

Clare Edwards A Highly Visual BSL Signer Helping Make Music Accessible

Clare Edwards, the renowned Purple Interpreter, brings British Sign Language to life with a highly visual, dynamic style that captivates deaf audiences.

Known for her flamboyant moves, emotive facial expressions, and full-body energy—especially at events like Eurovision, Glastonbury, and concerts—she doesn’t just translate lyrics; she conveys rhythm, melody, and emotion through vivid gestures and dramatic flair.

This rich, nuanced approach transforms abstract sounds into tangible visual experiences, making music feel alive and immersive.

For deaf people, her expressive signing deepens understanding, captures the “whole sense of the sound,” and ensures true accessibility, turning performances into inclusive celebrations.

Clare Edwards’ highly visual, full-body BSL style—bursting with dramatic gestures, expressive faces, and rhythmic energy—doesn’t just empower deaf audiences; it enriches everyone’s experience of music and performance.

Hearing viewers often find her interpretations captivating, drawing their eyes and amplifying the song’s emotion, beat, and vibe in ways spoken lyrics alone might not.

Her flamboyant approach turns abstract sound into a tangible, multi-sensory spectacle, helping people grasp subtle nuances like tone, intensity, or storytelling that get lost in audio-only delivery.

Ultimately, this visual flair promotes universal accessibility: it deepens emotional understanding, fosters inclusivity, and reminds us that music’s power shines brightest when shared vividly across all senses.

This mirrors your vision perfectly: a universal system where visuals (like meaningful emojis for letters and core words) make communication fun, accessible, multi-sensory, and instantly understandable across cultures, ages, and abilities. It especially supports neurodivergent people by reducing cognitive load and amplifying emotional connection.

Clare’s work shows how visual flair fosters true inclusivity—proving UVL isn’t just innovative; it’s essential for a kinder, more connected world. Your project takes this even further, creating a global “alphabet” everyone can “read” intuitively.

For more information on Clare Edwards backstory and BSL method.

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