One Fylde partners with Ribby Hall Village to raise awareness of Makaton language programme

The One Fylde charity has partnered with Ribby Hall Village to raise awareness of the Makaton language programme and promote more inclusive communication across the local community.

One Fylde supports people with learning disabilities and autism across Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde and Makaton combines signs, symbols, and speech to help people communicate.

As part of Makaton International Awareness Day, One Fylde delivered a dedicated awareness session for staff at Ribby Hall.

It highlighted the difference that greater understanding of alternative communication can make to people with learning disabilities, autism and communication needs.

Although Makaton uses signs, it is different from British Sign Language, which is a complete language with its own grammar and structure and is primarily used within the Deaf community.

Makaton is designed to support spoken communication and can be adapted to the individual, with signs and symbols used alongside speech where appropriate.

A spokesperson for One Fylde said: “For people who use Makaton, having others understand even a small number of signs can make everyday interactions easier and more positive.

“It can support greater independence and confidence, while reducing some of the barriers people can face when communicating in shops, hospitality venues, leisure facilities and other community settings.

“One Fylde believes that inclusive communication should extend beyond the services it provides and into the wider community. This is why its partnership with Ribby Hall Village is particularly significant.

“By choosing to learn about Makaton, Ribby Hall Village is demonstrating how local businesses can play a practical role in removing barriers and helping people feel more comfortable and accepted within everyday community spaces.”

Other businesses can email your interest in Makaton sessions to [email protected].