Clapping to be replaced by 'jazz hands' at Manchester student union events

**The Lawspeaker** · 10-03-2018, 03:39 AM

Clapping to be replaced by 'jazz hands' at Manchester student union events

Students at University of Manchester will use 'jazz hands' to express their support rather than clapping, in line with British Sign Language (BSL), to make events more accessible to those with disabilities

Clapping and whooping have been banned at Manchester University 's Students' Union in move to make student events more accessible.
The traditional form of clapping has been ditched in favour of the British Sign Language (BSL) equivalent, known to many as 'jazz hands'.
The union say the loud noise created by clapping, including whooping and traditional applause, can pose an issue for students with disabilities such as anxiety or sensory issues.

From now on people will be urged to use quiet BSL clapping, or jazz hands, at student events including debates, panels and talks.
It means students will wave their hands in the air, rather than clapping or cheering.

The union said democratic processes, such as student senate, should be accessible to all students, including those with disabilities.

The policy, passed at senate, resolved: "To swap audible clapping out for BSL clapping at SU events in order to make them more accessible.
"To encourage student groups and societies to do the same, and to include BSL clapping as a part of inclusion training."

It's not the first time clapping has been banned from student events.
Last year, the National Union of Students (NUS) proposed a similar motion due to clapping having a 'serious impact' on some delegates ability to access conference.

**Smeagol** · 10-03-2018, 03:42 AM

The union say the loud noise created by clapping, including whooping and traditional applause, can pose an issue for students with disabilities such as anxiety or sensory issues.

These kids are going to have a lot of trouble once they enter the real world.