The Power of Local Community in Supporting People with Communication Difficulties

Communication is at the heart of connection. It’s how we share our thoughts, feelings, and needs. But for many people living with communication difficulties, everyday interactions that others take for granted—ordering a coffee, joining a group activity, or asking for help—can feel overwhelming. This is where the power of the local community comes in.

When communities come together to support communication, they make inclusion possible. A shop assistant who knows a few Makaton signs, a teacher who uses visual supports, or a neighbour who takes the time to listen patiently—these small actions create huge impact. They show that everyone’s voice matters, no matter how it’s expressed.

Community-led initiatives, such as training sessions, awareness events, or support groups, build understanding and confidence. They empower not only the individuals with communication difficulties but also their families and friends, who often feel the weight of being misunderstood.

The ripple effect is powerful. When one person learns to adapt, others follow. Barriers break down, friendships form, and people who once felt excluded become active, valued members of their community. And for local businesses, the benefits are clear: being seen as welcoming and inclusive encourages more people to visit, return, and recommend. Inclusion doesn’t just strengthen community spirit—it also makes good business sense.

At its core, supporting communication is not about specialist skills or expensive resources—it’s about kindness, patience, and a willingness to connect. Local communities have the unique power to make that happen, creating spaces where everyone belongs, every voice is heard, and local businesses thrive alongside the people they serve.

I recently had the pleasure of organising an event for local businesses and organisations, shining a spotlight on how we can better support people in our community with communication difficulties. With a fantastic line-up of guest speakers and plenty of positive conversation, it was an inspiring and successful evening that showed just how powerful community collaboration can be. This is just the beginning—by continuing to work together, we can create a community where everyone feels included, supported, and heard. Even small steps, like learning a few Makaton signs, can make a big difference and help ensure that every voice in our community is valued.

👉 If you’d like your business to be more inclusive, why not take part in Makaton training? Learning even a handful of signs can open your doors wider, help every customer feel valued, and show that your business is truly part of an inclusive community.

You could even apply to become a 'Makaton Place' and get yourself on the interactive map, you can find out more about 'Makaton Places' here

You can find further information about training personalised to your business here

Makaton Awareness Day 2025 - Celebration Event in Weston-super-Mare, raising awareness of the use of Makaton and other forms of communication to support those with communication difficulties within our local community.

**Disclaimer**

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and thoughts and information expressed in these blogs are from my own personal thoughts and real life experiences, they do not contain advisory content. While always striving to provide accurate and up-to-date content, there are no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of any information. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. 

All information on the site is provided in good faith, however, no representation or warranty is made of any kind, expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the site.

These blogs are created from my own personal experience and are for general information purposes and are not, in any way, advisory. Where needed I have included research and reference links and further reading articles.

At times I have used AI generated content to reword my own thoughts and may include AI research of  information relevant to the blog and to create images relevant to my blogs, however whenever possible I have used my own images with permission from those featured in the images. My blogs are open to fair use.

Any questions or queries please do get in touch - alimakatontutor@gmail.com