Deaf Heritage Centre:
A New Chapter in Deaf History
Preserving our past, inspiring our future: The British Deaf Association (BDA) and the British Deaf History Society (BDHS) are pleased to announce a new partnership to secure the long-term future of Deaf heritage in the UK.
Preserving our past, inspiring our future
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 is a collaborative step forward, bringing together the strengths of both organisations to protect and develop the museum for the future. It marks an important moment for Deaf heritage in the UK, uniting culture, language and history within one national home.
Honouring the Legacy of the British Deaf History Society
For nearly twenty years, the British Deaf History Society has been at the heart of Deaf history in the UK. Since establishing the museum in 2006, BDHS members and volunteers have worked tirelessly to collect and safeguard invaluable artefacts, artworks, photographs and archives that document Deaf life across the country and the evolution of British Sign Language (BSL).
Their work has created a unique record of Deaf culture, identity and community life. The Deaf Heritage Centre stands as a testament to this dedication, and the BDA is honoured to build on such a strong foundation.
“Peter Jackson, Honorary CuratorIt 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
“
This marks a new chapter in Deaf history, bringing our heritage into a secure home where it can be preserved, celebrated and shared with future generations.
- Robert Adam - Chair, BDA
The future of the Deaf Heritage Centre
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.
“Rebecca Mansell, BDA Chief ExecutiveThis 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.
Community at the Heart
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.
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.
Address
Deaf Heritage Centre
Manchester Deaf Centre
Crawford House
Booth Street East
Manchester
M13 8GH
Contact
museum@bda.org.uk