Make a sign with Makaton
Our UK Roofbreaker networks have been organising Makaton signing events recently to help make worship more accessible . Makaton is language system that combines symbols , signs , and speech to enable people to communicate more effectively . Makaton signing is used by people with learning disabilities and others who find it helpful to use visual communication , but anyone can use it as a way to communicate with their hands as well as with words .
In Cardiff , the volunteer Roofbreaker network held a fun Coffee and Makaton event using online videos produced by the learning disability charity Count Everyone In and the organisation Worship for Everyone . You can find these great video resources to facilitate Makaton worship on YouTube at https :// bit . ly / MakatonSongs
One participant who came from Bristol for the Cardiff Coffee and Makaton event said that coming had made her “ feel less alone ” and that she was “ on a journey of discovering God again .” She explained that , as an autistic person with mental health challenges and sensory needs , she often feels misunderstood , but she can worship God when she is using Makaton signing . We saw this first-hand when , having been sat under a table using some sensory toys to regulate and get used to a new environment , she jumped up and started singing and worshipping as soon as the Makaton signing started . She then was able to chat to the other participants and contribute to the discussion about Roofbreaking in Cardiff and Bristol . We are looking to run Makaton training in Cardiff in future .
There will also be a Makaton Morning in Gosport , Hampshire , on Saturday 19th October . It will include a Makaton workshop led by Janneke from Count Everyone In . If you are in the Hampshire area and would like to know more information about this event or would like to book , please contact Carol on carol @ throughtheroof . org
Spotlight on Scotland
Enjoying Makaton in worship at the Cardiff event .
Below : Makaton at a past Roofbreaker event in Manchester .
We were recently contacted by Evangelical Alliance Scotland who are compiling a report - What Kind of Nation ? to explain how Christians and the church contribute hugely to every aspect of life in Scotland that the Scottish Government has responsibility for .
They wanted examples of our work in Scotland that demonstrate God ’ s love in meaningful and practical ways . We profiled our Edinburgh Roofbreaker Network who share ideas and training , and provide mutual support to disabled people , one of whom commented : “ I find it useful to speak with other Roofbreakers and share ideas . This is the benefit of peer support - feeling that you belong , that everyone else in the room values disability inclusion . It is the only time I feel normal and the usual barriers / pressures to meet societal expectations fall away when I walk in the door ”.
It is a privilege to contribute to the report and we hope it helps those with political responsibility better understand and engage with the Christian community ; and give Christians greater confidence in seeking justice and making Jesus known in Scotland .
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