Can I remove sign language?

Sometimes only the signed or audio described versions of a programme are available on BBC iPlayer. The signer is part of the picture and can't be removed. 

If you can't find the non-signed version of the episode, it's because that version of the programme has expired. The accessible version of a programme is often broadcast a few days after the standard version, however it will have the same availability (for example, 30 days), so there will be a period where the signed or audio described versions are the only versions available.

For more information on signed programmes on iPlayer, have a look here: Are programmes with sign language available?

Can I switch off sign language if the non-signed version is still available?

Yes, if you're watching an on-demand programme and the non-signed version is still available on BBC iPlayer.

  • On the BBC iPlayer website 
    Switch over to the non-signed version by selecting Turn off Sign Language on the white bar at the top of the playback screen, or deselect 'Sign Language' at the bottom of the playback screen.

    The white bar that appears on the top of a programme on the BBC iPlayer website. The 'Turn off Sign Language' option is in bold on the far right
     
  • On the BBC iPlayer app for mobiles and tablets
    Sign language episodes can be accessed from either the Signed category, or by using the speech bubble icon on the playback screen. Using this icon, you can toggle the Signed switch off, if the non-signed version of the episode is available.  

    Image of the playback screen on the iPlayer mobile app. The accessibility options are open and the Sign Language option is highlighted
     
  • On the BBC iPlayer app for connected TVs
    Use your remote to navigate up to the accessibility menu (speech bubble). If the non-SL version of the episode is still available, you'll see the option to toggle between the SL or non-SL version.

​​​​If the programme is repeated the standard version should become available again. Schedule details for episodes can be found on the programme website. And if there is a known issue where the signed version is available incorrectly instead of the standard version, we'll list it on the known issues page.

Can I switch off sign language on live programmes?

No, you can't. The signer is part of the programme and can't be removed.