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.
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 for generations to come.
This transition represents a collaborative step forward, bringing together the strengths of both organisations to protect and develop the museum for the future.
Honouring the Past – Securing the Future
For nearly twenty years, the BDHS has played a vital role in documenting and safeguarding Deaf history. Since establishing the museum in 2006, its members and volunteers have worked tirelessly to collect and protect invaluable artefacts, artworks, photographs and archives that reflect Deaf life across the UK.
A special tribute is paid to Peter Jackson, whose leadership and lifelong dedication to the preservation of Deaf heritage has been exceptional. Peter will continue to contribute his expertise as Honorary Curator of the Deaf Heritage Centre.
The Next Chapter: BDA’s Vision
The Deaf Heritage Centre will form a central part of the BDA’s growing commitment to Deaf culture, history, identity and British Sign Language (BSL) as a living heritage.
The BDA plans to develop the Centre into a vibrant, accessible and modern museum that connects past and present, inspires younger generations and promotes pride in Deaf identity and culture. Planned developments include:
- Expanding digital access and online exhibitions
- Developing educational resources for schools and universities
- Launching community-curated exhibitions
- Building partnerships with museums and archives across the UK
- Establishing a long-term safeguarding and conservation plan for the collection
Community at the Heart
The BDA is committed to working closely with BDHS members, volunteers, Deaf historians and the wider Deaf community to ensure that the museum continues to reflect diverse Deaf experiences and perspectives.
Leadership Reflections
Dr Robert Adam, Chair of the British Deaf Association, said:
“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.
We are especially proud to recognise Peter Jackson’s extraordinary contribution through his appointment as Honorary Curator. His work has safeguarded our collective memory for future generations.”
Melinda Napier, Chair of the British Deaf History Society, added:
“The Deaf Heritage Centre has been a labour of love for many within BDHS, especially Peter Jackson. 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 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.”
Celebrating the Transition
A special event took place on Friday 5 December 2025 at the Deaf Heritage Centre in Manchester to mark the transition and celebrate this significant moment in Deaf history. The day reflected on the achievements of the BDHS, acknowledged Peter Jackson’s lifelong contribution and welcomed the next stage of the Centre’s development under BDA stewardship.
Get Involved
This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Deaf heritage in the UK. The BDA will share updates in the coming months about volunteering opportunities, events and ways the community can support the development of the Deaf Heritage Centre.
Media Contacts
British Deaf Association – Media Office
media@bda.org.uk | bda.org.uk
British Deaf History Society – Public Relations Team
info@bdhs.org.uk | www.bdhs.org.uk
