Library becomes first Makaton Aware library in the country
Brierley Hill Library, has officially been recognised as a the country's first Makaton Aware library.
More than 100,000 adults and children throughout the UK use Makaton symbols and signs to help them communicate. Developed over fifty years ago and entirely different from British Sign Language, Makaton supports people living with autism, cleft lip and palate, developmental language disorder, Down’s syndrome, global developmental delay, multi-sensory impairment and verbal dyspraxia.
The Makaton Aware designation is given to organisations committed to breaking down communication barriers, so everyone feels valued and understood.
Operating under the Better brand, Brierley Hill Library is run by not-for-profit charitable social enterprise GLL, on behalf of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council.
“We offer Makaton sing, read and sign sessions every week and can arrange for Makaton class visits to the library,” said GLL Partnership Manager Stephanie Rhoden.
“To celebrate International Makaton Awareness Day on Wednesday 28 August, the library is holding a special ‘draw your own Makaton symbol’ event. It will run from 2-4pm and there’s no need to book in advance. Resources are being provided by the Makaton charity and activities will include colouring in a Makaton flag and decorating a t-shirt.
“I’m delighted and proud that our staff’s dedication to accessibility, inclusion and meaningful communication has put us on the Makaton map.
“Libraries are important community spaces and it’s essential that everyone feels welcome.”
Brierley Hill Library offers a range of resources, services and activities for all ages.
Councillor James Clinton, cabinet member for public health, responsible for libraries, said:
“All of our libraries are welcoming spaces and aim to serve their local communities. By becoming a Makaton Aware venue, Brierley Hill library has made itself even more inclusive and I'm incredibly proud to hear that we are the first Makaton Aware library in the country."
For more information, call 01384 812874, email BrierleyHill.Library@gll.org or visit https://www.better.org.uk/library/dudley/brierley-hill-library