The Makaton Charity's Makaton Places initiative recognises organisations that are committed to inclusive communication through its Makaton Aware and Makaton Friendly schemes. Whether you're working towards one of these recognised standards or simply looking for practical ways to make a difference, every step towards better communication counts.
The good news is that small changes can have a big impact. From using everyday signs and symbols to giving people more time to process information, there are lots of practical ways to create a place where communication can thrive.
Whether you're a school, nursery, workplace, healthcare setting, church, visitor attraction, leisure centre or care provider, creating a Makaton-friendly environment is about much more than learning a few signs. It's about making communication easier, reducing barriers and helping everyone feel included. Here are ten simple ideas to help make your organisation more Makaton friendly.
- Start with a warm welcome
Learn to sign simple greetings like hello, good morning, thank you and goodbye. A friendly signed greeting can instantly make someone feel included.
- Make key information visual
Add Makaton Symbols alongside words on important signs such as:
- Toilets
- Reception
- Café
- Exit
- Lift
- First Aid
- Information
Symbols help many people understand their surroundings more easily.
- Learn the vocabulary you use every day
You don't need to know hundreds of signs.
A café might learn:
- tea
- coffee
- cake
- pay
- finished
A visitor attraction might learn:
- ticket
- toilet
- café
- dinosaur
- playground
Start with what's relevant.
- Encourage everyone to join in
Makaton works best when everyone feels able to use it. Encourage staff to use the signs they know, even if it's only a few.
You don't have to be fluent to make a difference.
- Use signs with speech
Remember that Makaton is designed to support spoken language, not replace it. Say the word as you sign it and remember you don't sign every word - just the most important ones!
- Slow down and give processing time
Signing naturally encourages people to communicate at a more manageable pace. Pause after asking questions and allow time for a response.
- Include Makaton in everyday activities
Use signs during:
- meetings
- songs
- stories
- announcements
- routines
- greetings
- celebrations
The more naturally it's used, the more familiar it becomes.
- Let people know you're committed to inclusive communication
People are more likely to feel confident using your services if they know communication has been considered before they arrive.
If your organisation has achieved Makaton Friendly status through The Makaton Charity's Makaton Places programme, you'll receive resources to help you demonstrate your commitment, including an annual window sticker and certificate, a 6 Steps to Makaton Friendly staff poster, an Ask for Help poster for visitors, and symbol cards to improve navigation around your setting.
These resources don't just raise awareness - they provide practical prompts for staff and reassurance for people who use Makaton and their families that communication is valued.
Even if you're not yet part of the scheme, think about how you can show your commitment to accessible communication. Small visual cues can reassure people that they're welcome and encourage them to communicate in the way that works best for them.
- Keep learning together
Choose a new sign each week or month and encourage everyone to practise it. Small, regular steps are much easier than trying to learn everything at once.
- Remember that communication is about connection
The goal isn't perfect signing. It's making people feel seen, understood and included. Even if you only know a handful of signs, using them with warmth and confidence can make a lasting difference.
About the author
Nic Pike is Director of Better Communication Together CIC and a Licensed Makaton Tutor and Tutor Training Facilitator. She writes about Makaton, accessible communication and inclusive practice, drawing on over 40 years' professional experience and lived experience as a parent of a Makaton user.
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