We are delighted to announce that we have relaunched our exciting new Makaton Friendly partnership programme, designed to make organisations and communities 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. The scheme drives inclusivity to help create a fairer and more tolerant society for all.

There are Makaton Friendly organisations across the country, with more joining each week. They can range from nurseries, childminders schools, and colleges to farms, churches, retail shops, cafes even football and sport clubs. They have all invested in their staff and venues to meet our Makaton Friendly criteria and improve their accessibility for anyone using Makaton.

Take a look at the Makaton Friendly map is there a Makaton Friendly place near you? Are you visiting an area? Why not check if there is a Makaton Friendly organisation there!

The Makaton Charity are proud to say that St Asaph is the first Makaton Friendly city in Wales to become Makaton Friendly. This has taken a lot of hard work and dedication from our Makaton Tutors and organisations in the city, working together to provide a whole community that welcomes and includes people with learning or communication difficulties that use Makaton. We have other towns that are Makaton Friendly and large cities that are hot on the heels of St Asaph.

When you are out and about you may see the Makaton Friendly window sticker or certificate

This is to show that the organisation has demonstrated that they:

• Understand that people use alternative ways to communicate
• Provide a supporting and welcoming environment
• Use symbols and signs around the organisation to aid inclusiveness and independence

Do you work in an organisation or have visited somewhere that you feel is Makaton Friendly?

If you would like more information, or support with training please contact your local licensed Makaton tutor, Sarah. [email protected]