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The Millennium Forum theatre in Derry has become the first Irish cultural venue to achieve Makaton Friendly Status
Lauren Heath-Jones | Planet Attractions | 08 Mar 2023
The Millennium Forum gained the accreditation by proving understanding of alternative communication methods
The Millennium Forum theatre has become the first cultural venue in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to be granted Makaton Friendly Status by The Makaton Charity.
Makaton is a language programme that combines symbols, sign language and speech to support the development of essential communication skills in individuals with cognitive impairment, autism, Down’s Syndrome, specific language impairment and acquired neurological disorders that negatively impact communication, such as stroke or dementia.
To gain the accreditation, the Northern Ireland-based Millennium Forum had to prove understanding of alternative communication methods; provide a welcoming and supportive environment for people with learning or communication difficulties; and use signs and symbols throughout their facility to aid inclusivity and independence.
“This award recognises the work that we are continuing to do in order to ensure that our venue is fully accessible to all our patrons,” said Lisa Heaney, box office and access manager at the Millennium Forum.
“We are passionate about communication and firmly believe that all children and adults with learning and/or communication difficulties should enjoy equal access to our theatre.”
Makaton tutor Ana María Valadez Peña added: “I am very proud to have played a little part in the Millennium Forum achieving their Makaton Friendly Status. They have gone the extra mile to make sure that everyone feels welcome and included.
“Makaton Friendly Status put the Millennium Forum on the Makaton Friendly map of The Makaton Charity website. It’s my ultimate goal to see more places and organisations in our community gaining Makaton Friendly Status.”
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