Makaton and British Sign Language (BSL)

Joint statements by The Makaton Charity and BDA

Makaton and British Sign Language (BSL) are entirely distinct and are used by very different communities of people. The Makaton communication programme, developed over 50 years ago, combines speech, signing, and symbols, specifically aiding those with learning or communication difficulties. It is not a complete, natural language like BSL but rather a supplementary communication system. Makaton has adapted a number of BSL signs but uses them alongside spoken English and symbols in English word order, making it a key communication method for over 100,000 people, primarily those who are hearing but face communication challenges. Makaton is not appropriate for use in interaction with Deaf people as it is not a complete or natural sign language.

In contrast, BSL is a complete, natural language with its own extensive vocabulary and syntax. It has existed for centuries and is primarily used by the Deaf community in the UK (alongside Irish Sign Language in Northern Ireland). Sign language is not international; there are hundreds of different sign languages around the world. BSL is independent of spoken English, having evolved over many generations with a complex grammar of hand and body movements, facial expressions, and eye gaze to convey meaning. It is a rich, culturally significant language.

British Deaf Association

Since its foundation in 1890, the British Deaf Association (BDA), has represented the signing Deaf population of the UK and plays a crucial role in promoting BSL (and Irish Sign Language in Northern Ireland) as an integral aspect of the UK Deaf community's cultural heritage. As a Deaf-led membership organisation, the BDA is recognised by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) and the European Union of the Deaf (EUD) as the sole legitimate voice of the BSL community. The BDA is dedicated to achieving equal rights for Deaf individuals and leads advocacy and campaigning for BSL and ISL. These efforts culminated in the historic legal recognition of BSL through the BSL (Scotland) Act 2015 and the UK-wide BSL Act in 2022.

Vital but distinct roles for BSL and Makaton

Makaton and BSL play vital but distinct roles in promoting communication for their respective communities. Makaton serves as a supportive communication system, aiding those with learning or communication challenges, whereas BSL and ISL are the natural languages of the UK's Deaf community (alongside other sign languages used by Deaf migrants to the UK).

Acknowledging the significance of both, The Makaton Charity and the BDA have agreed to work collaboratively to highlight the specific features of Makaton and BSL and to support their respective communities effectively. The BDA’s advocacy underscores the value of language in cultural identity and rights, and through this collaboration, both organisations strive to promote understanding and inclusivity.