We are proud to announce that John Mason International has introduced Makaton training for its moving crews and surveyors across the UK. This innovative initiative aims to provide their crews with a fundamental understanding of the Makaton Communication Programme, enhancing their ability to communicate with customers and their children who have communication challenges.
Makaton training enables staff to communicate confidently with people who have communication difficulties and needs. It offers ideas, advice, and guidance to improve communication, accessibility, and inclusion strategies. Makaton is a multi-modal communication programme that uses speech, signs and symbols, reducing frustration and opening up two-way communication. With over 100,000 children and adults using it, Makaton has been shown to increase opportunities for personal expression, participation, and social interaction.
The training, which comprises of two sets of vocabulary, was conducted by renowned Makaton tutor Corrine Lloyd. It covered the standard vocabulary required by The Makaton Charity, as well as specifically tailored vocabulary unique to the roles and daily interactions of John Mason International staff.
Corrine Lloyd, Makaton Tutor, expressed her enthusiasm: “I was delighted to deliver Makaton training for John Mason International. The team are eager to communicate more effectively and provide a positive experience for their clients, during what maybe an incredibly emotive time for them. Being able to use Makaton signs and symbols to support their spoken language when they introduce themselves, ask what is going where and if they require any further help, will undoubtedly reduce the customer’s anxiety and enable them to build rapport and trust. With over 2.2 million people in the UK with speech, language and communication challenges, I hope that others follow in John Mason’s footsteps and make strides to ensure their communication is accessible to all.”
This initiative reflects John Mason International’s commitment to breaking the ice and making the moving process more enjoyable and inclusive. By equipping staff with these valuable skills, the company continues to demonstrate its dedication to exceptional customer service and effective communication.
Steve Quinn, one of John Mason International’s removal crew leader based in Liverpool who participated in the training, shared his thoughts: “Learning Makaton has been an eye-opening experience. It’s incredible to see the immediate impact it has on our interactions with customers, especially children. Being able to communicate in a way that makes them feel more comfortable and understood is deeply rewarding. It truly enhances the personal connection we strive to build with every move.”
Simon Hood, Owner of John Mason International, emphasised the significance of this initiative: “Communication is at the core of what we do. At John Mason International, we pride ourselves on our family values and the personal touch we bring to every move. This Makaton training exemplifies how we go the extra mile to ensure our customers feel understood and valued. The training provides an introduction to the Makaton Language Programme, encouraging participants to access further training as appropriate to their needs and situation.”
With over 140 years of expertise in the moving industry, John Mason International remains committed to providing tailored, dependable, and innovative moving services. This latest initiative underscores their ongoing dedication to enhancing customer satisfaction and fostering strong, meaningful connections with the communities they serve.
