Mum turns personal journey into new venture

A North East training specialist is helping families, schools and workplaces create more inclusive environments after turning a personal experience into a growing business.

Ryton-based Eleanor Baggaley now delivers Makaton training across the region following her daughter Ava’s Down syndrome diagnosis.

Eleanor says learning Makaton transformed communication within her own family, helping Ava express herself and better understand the world around her from an early age.

Makaton uses signs, symbols and speech to support communication and is widely used by people with learning or communication difficulties. 

Unlike traditional sign language, it is designed to encourage spoken language rather than replace it.

Eleanor said: “Makaton uses signs, symbols and spoken language together to support communication. 

“It helps people with communication difficulties and learning disabilities to understand the world around them and helps others understand them too.

“It’s based on British Sign Language, but we use signs in spoken word order.

“It’s there to aid communication, reduce frustration and help people develop speech and confidence.”

What began as a personal journey has since evolved into a professional role, with Eleanor qualifying as a licensed Makaton tutor through the Makaton Charity around 18 months ago.

She now works with parents, carers, schools, organisations and businesses both in person and online to improve accessibility and communication.

Eleanor added: “We knew very early on that Ava was likely to experience delayed speech and communication difficulties. 

“Learning Makaton gave her a way to communicate with us from a young age and helped reduce frustration for all of us as a family.

“It was quite a gruelling process. 

“Although I already had experience as a teacher, this was another level entirely. 

“It’s important that parents, carers, professionals and workplaces are taught the right skills and tools to create truly inclusive environments.

“I can deliver training in workplaces, community venues or online, so it can reach people wherever they are.”

Alongside her training work, Eleanor, who previously worked as a maths and computing teacher, also supports aspiring authors with writing and publishing and was recently elected as a local councillor.

She added: “I always joke that I wear many hats.

“Everything I do is about helping people become the best version of themselves and helping them change the world in their own way.

“I swapped numbers for words. 

“Through my work in communication, education, publishing and public service, I hope to continue building a more understanding and inclusive community for families across the region.”

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