What is Makaton and why does it matter?
Communication is something many of us take for granted—but for thousands of people, expressing themselves or understanding others can be a daily challenge.
That’s where Makaton makes a difference.
Makaton is a communication programme that combines speech, signs and symbols to help people communicate more effectively. It is used by children and adults with a wide range of communication needs, as well as those who support them.
Rather than replacing speech, Makaton supports it – helping people to understand language, express ideas and build confidence.
Why Makaton Is Important
At its core, Makaton is about inclusion.
It helps to:
- Give people a voice
- Reduce frustration and anxiety
- Support understanding in everyday situations
- Strengthen relationships and connections
Importantly, Makaton isn’t just for those who rely on it – it’s for everyone around them too. When more people use Makaton, communication becomes shared, accessible and inclusive.
Creating More Inclusive Environments
Small changes can have a big impact.
Using simple signs, giving people time to communicate and being mindful of how we share information can all help to create environments where people feel:
- Heard
- Valued
- Included
Across schools, workplaces and community settings, Makaton is helping to break down communication barriers and build more inclusive spaces.
Taking the First Step
For those interested in learning more, follow The Makaton Charity on Facebook for their ‘Sign of the Week’. Introductory training such as Makaton Level 1 can also be a great place to start, providing practical tools and building confidence in using signs and symbols in everyday interactions.
At Bendrigg, this approach to inclusive communication closely aligns with our values, and we’re proud to support opportunities for people to begin their Makaton journey.
