ROMSEY’S bid to become the first Makaton-friendly town in the UK has edged a step closer as more businesses signed up to help those with learning difficulties.

More than a third of the total number of companies needed to complete the bid have now become accredited to make it easier for disabled residents to use facilities independently.

Bosses at the Makaton charity say accreditation will be given to the town if 30 businesses in Romsey can learn 20 signs or symbols which they can then use to communicate with.

Makaton is a language programme using signs and symbols to help people to communicate.

And now a further call has been launched by local group Speaking Space, who are spearheading the bid, to add more names to the already accredited 11 businesses.

Several big companies in the town have already put their name down to be involved with the campaign, including Waitrose, Lloyds Bank, The Rapids and members of the Romsey Chamber of Commerce. Local police, fire and ambulance crews have also signed up.

But Hannah Anderson, of Alex Kelly Ltd which runs Speaking Space, wants more to sign up to help make Romsey more accessible.

“This has not been done before so we are setting the example and so have no guide to follow,” she added.

“But, so far, what we have noticed is that more and more residents with learning disabilities are able to go into the town centre and be independent.

“This is fantastic, but we would like more businesses to sign up.”

Alex Kelly, owner of Alex Kelly Ltd, said: “We are now asking for small businesses to come forward so we can get to the 30-mark and Romsey will be recognised as Makaton-friendly.”

Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey, said: “Hannah and Alex have shown a huge dedication and commitment to making sure Romsey secures Makaton-friendly status – it really is an ideal location as the town centre is quite compact and already committed to being dementia friendly.”

To get involved, call Hannah on 02380 987134 or email hannah@alexkelly.biz