A new GCSE in British Sign Language is on the way.
The Government is aiming to have exam board syllabuses approved for the new qualification from September 2025.
In the meantime, sign language has already made a difference on Wearside as these archive Echo photos show.
1. Looking back
Sign language played a big part in all of these past Wearside events.
2. Back in time to the Board Inn
Board Inn landlord Colin Horn took a sign language course in 1992 as part of a campaign at the Herrington pub.
The pub also gave £1,000 cheque to Fred Hardy, chairman of Sunderland Deaf Society.
3. Class at Havelock Primary
Meet the pupils of Havelock Primary School who learned sign language in 2004.
They are, left to right back, Stephanie Carolan, Keiran Parkin, Cortnie Kerr and Jake McGough.
Front left to right are Calvin Gibson, Brogan Sweeney, Jessica Lancaster, and Jasmine Crossley.
4. Signing in style
Pupils at George Washington Primary School who used sign language during their Nativity in 2007