Alton Towers theme park is working to make its attractions more accessible by training staff to better communicate with guests.
The BBC reported that workers at the attraction in Staffordshire are being trained to use basic skills and phrases in Makaton to aid accessibility.
The BBC website’s disability news section says that more than 100,000 children and adults use Makaton symbols and signs, either as their main method of communication, or as a way to support speech.
The site reported that staff at Alton Towers said they felt the training was “really important”.
Alton Towers Resort told the BBC that equipping frontline teams with Makaton skills will help guests feel more included in experiences at the park, particularly young guests visiting CBeebies Land and the CBeebies Hotel.
Makaton, which uses signs and symbols to aid communication, is known for being used by Justin Fletcher and his character Mr Tumble on the CBeebies programme Something Special.
Alton Towers said it hopes beginning the training now will allow staff to be prepared to assist guests during the busier Bank Holiday and Summer periods.
Kate McBirnie, head of guest excellence at Alton Towers Resort, told the BBC: “We want our teams to be able to engage and communicate on all levels.”
Makaton trainer Amanda Glennon responded that it makes a “huge difference” to people.
She said: “The expectation is really low because there aren’t very many places outside your daily life where you can actually walk in and somebody just be able to sign hello to you.”
