"Sign Language" in this country typically means British Sign Language (BSL). which is the naturally evolved language of the Deaf community in the UK. BSL is a language in its own right and has its own grammar, word order and regional variations. A person who is Deaf or has hearing loss and communicates with sign language and accesses services for hearing-impaired people will typically use BSL, their natural native language, and it is more appropriate for their families and other people who support or work with them to learn BSL than Makaton.
If you'd like to learn Sign Language or to find out more about BSL please visit the British Deaf Association (BDA)or Sense websites.
Makaton is a communication system which uses signs and symbols, together with speech, in spoken word order, using visual cues to support (rather than replace) the spoken language. Many of the signs used in Makaton are drawn from the South East dialect of BSL, but there are some significant differences. Makaton is used by and to support hearing people of all ages with communication difficulties and learning disabilities, and it can be useful in supporting people learning English as a second language.
If you feel Makaton is suitable for your needs, click HERE to look at training advertised by freelance Makaton Tutors on this website.