British Sign Language provision part of D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum improvements

15/09/2026 - A £5,000 funding boost will help bring the life and times of Eastwood born writer, D.H. Lawrence and local history to more people, through a project to introduce British sign language provision, alongside other accessibility improvements.

The funding has been secured following a successful bid to Museum Development Midlands, using public funding from Arts Council England, and will bring a more complete museum experience to people with hearing impairments and other accessibility requirements.The D.H. Lawrence Museum 

As part of the project, the museum’s interpretation boards are set to be replaced, making them easier to read and understand with the addition of pictograms and improved colour contrast.

The boards will also have a QR code to take visitors to videos that translate the text into British Sign Language, which is often easier to understand for people with hearing impairments

Portfolio Holder for Health and Leisure, Councillor Teresa Cullen, said, “It’s so important to us to be able to make culture accessible to as many people as possible, and this funding has allowed the museum to offer better experiences to our audiences.

“By removing barriers and enhancing what we can provide, we’re ensuring that more people can connect with the stories, collections and heritage that make our museum so special.”

Museum and Collections Officer, Carolyn Melbourne, said, “We are delighted to have been awarded this funding, which will allow us to make our museum more inclusive and welcoming for everyone. British Sign Language provision is an important step towards breaking down barriers and helping more people to engage with the museum’s stories.”

The D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is where the literary legend was born on 11 September 1885. Only 30 minutes from Nottingham city centre, the museum is a must see for fans of literature, and for those wanting to delve deeper into Nottingham’s literary heritage.

Step back in time to experience the traditional Victorian wash house, see the parlour; a room only for special guests, and have a wander around the parental and other bedrooms. The museum’s permanent exhibition features items from Lawrence’s family and even paintings created by the author himself.

Find out more about what’s on and plan your visit on the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum webpage.


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