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 says 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.
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.
Agencies
