Making organisations and community spaces more accessible to Makaton users
We are passionate about communication and firmly believe that all children and adults with learning or communication difficulty should enjoy equal access to services and facilities.
We are also passionate about helping local business and organisations in Cornwall to navigate the path to becoming Makaton Friendly.
What’s included?
- Ongoing support from your personal Makaton Tutor
- 24/7 digital access to key signs, symbols and videos in the Makaton Library
- Downloadable Makaton signs and symbols for on-site use at your business
- Promotional logos and stickers for your website / social / advertising / windows
- Promotion on makaton.org via the interactive Makaton Friendly map
- Advice and support from peers and experts in the Makaton online community
- Ongoing inspiration and learning in webinars hosted by Makaton experts
What is Makaton Friendly?
Makaton Friendly is unique partnership programme, by the Makaton Charity, which helps organisations and communities to improve accessibility for anyone living with learning or communication difficulties. The scheme drives inclusivity to help create a fairer and more tolerant society for all.
What makes an organisation Makaton Friendly?
All organisations that have been awarded Makaton Friendly status have demonstrated that they:
- Understand that different people use alternative ways to communicate
- Provide a supportive and welcoming environment so that people who have learning or communication difficulties whatever age, can take part in the services that are provided
- Use symbols and signs around the organisation to aid inclusiveness and independence with signage and wayfinding
Why become Makaton Friendly?
The Makaton Friendly concept was inspired and initiated by passionate Makaton Tutors and resulted in the UK’s first Makaton Friendly town, Romsey.
In becoming Makaton Friendly you help to increase accessibility across the UK for people living with learning and communication difficulties who might otherwise struggle to access your products and services. There are many benefits of being a Makaton Friendly organisation:
Benefits for businesses
Being Makaton Friendly enables Makaton Users, their family, friends, and carers to feel confident in choosing your products and services broadening your appeal and extending your client base.
Benefits for education, health and social care providers
Creating a Makaton Friendly environment helps schools and providers of health and social care to better serve Makaton Users and improve outcomes. It can also assist in meeting your accessibility and inclusivity targets.
Improving staff motivation and retention
Investing in your team by empowering them to learn Makaton generates good will and enhances job satisfaction. Your staff gain a powerful new life skill and in return you can gain loyalty and enthusiasm.
Strengthen community ties
The Makaton Friendly programme helps individuals who struggle to communicate feel welcome and included within the wider community, just like everyone else.
Recognition & Reward
The Makaton Charity promotes Makaton Friendly organisations through our website, newsletters, and local Tutor networks. We also provide Partners with assets and guidance to create interest with the local press, for use in advertising and to display on site. It is a unique selling point which sets you apart and demonstrates you care.
For more information head over to the Makaton Charity website
or send us an email to find out more