Access NHS Talking Therapies in British Sign Language (BSL)
At SignHealth, we provide specialist NHS Talking Therapies in British Sign Language (BSL) for deaf people in partnership with NHS Integrated Care Boards (ICBs).
If you are feeling low, anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed, support is available. You may be struggling with sleep, finding it hard to concentrate, worrying more than usual, or no longer enjoying things you used to enjoy.
Talking therapies can help you understand and manage these feelings. Our service is designed specifically for deaf people, with therapy delivered directly in BSL by therapists who understand deaf culture and experiences.
We offer different types of therapy and will work with you to find the support that best meets your needs. You do not have to face things on your own.
When can therapy help?
You may benefit from therapy if you are experiencing:
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Depression or low mood
- Stress or burnout
- Panic attacks
- Trauma or difficult life experiences
- Loss, grief, or major life changes
- Difficulties with confidence or self-esteem
- Other emotional wellbeing concerns
Why choose SignHealth?
Areas we currently have funding agreement with
- Bromley
- Bexley
- Lambeth
- Greenwich
- Southwark
- Lewisham
• Barnsley
• Doncaster
• Rotherham
• Sheffield
Areas where referrals may also be funded
In the areas listed below, SignHealth does not currently have a commissioning agreement with the local NHS. However, funding is often available on an individual referral basis. Once we receive your referral, we will apply for funding on your behalf. In most cases, funding is approved, although this process can take a little longer before your assessment can be arranged.
- Birmingham and Solihull
- Black Country
- Coventry and Warwickshire
- Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
- Derby and Derbyshire
- Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
- Northamptonshire
- Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin
- Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent
- Bolton
- Stockport
- Oldham
- Surrey and Sussex
- Devon
- Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes
- Hampshire and Isle of Wight
We are continually working with more NHS organisations across England to improve access to our service. Funding arrangements can change, so please check this page regularly for the latest updates.
Ready to take the first step?
You do not need to wait for a GP referral. If you live in one of the areas listed above and feel you could benefit from support with your mental health, you can refer yourself directly today.
Complete our online self-referral form and start your journey towards better mental wellbeing with accessible, specialist support in BSL.
If you’re unsure whether the service is right for you, our team are happy to help and discuss your options.
My area is not listed – can I still access the service?
If your area is not listed above, you can still refer yourself to SignHealth. We will support you in applying to your local NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) for funding to access our specialist BSL therapy service.
If funding is refused, we can help you challenge the decision.
We recommend checking this page regularly, as new areas may be added in the future.
How long are the waiting list?
You may need to wait before starting therapy. Waiting times depend on your needs and therapist availability.
Some people wait 1–2 months, while others may wait 9–10 months.
We know waiting can be difficult and we work hard to see everyone as soon as possible. Like many NHS therapy services, we have high demand and limited therapist availability.
Find out more
Want to learn more about our service? Visit our Therapy Service FAQs for information about:
- The different types of therapy available
- What to expect from therapy
- Waiting times
- Eligibility criteria
- What we can and cannot support with
Everyone deserves access to mental health support in their own language. SignHealth is here to help.
