Makaton symbols used on station information boards

Information panels with Makaton symbols about walks, trails, cycle routes, nature reserves and heritage attractions have been installed at stations in Cumbria.

Makaton is a language programme that uses symbols, signs and speech to enable people with disabilities to communicate.

The panels have been installed at Corkickle, Dalston, Harrington, Seascale, St Bees and Wigton stations.

Northern said it will help increase "active and accessible travel along the Cumbrian Coast Line".

Makaton is used by over 100,000 children and adults in the UK as their main method of communication or as a way to support speech, the Makaton Charity said.

Northern said the station signs, which utilise Makaton symbols, would help people who struggle with understanding concepts and those with poor literacy skills.

The project, called ‘Beyond the Home’, was a collaboration between Northern, Community Rail Cumbria, West House, Carlisle Day Services and Allerdale & Copeland Day Opportunities.

Cumberland Council and The Makaton Charity also supported the campaign.

It is hoped the signs will help people travel by train to visit "hidden gem destinations".

Community Rail Partnership officer Warren Birch said the people who worked on creating the information panels were "the real stars" of the campaign.

Mr Birch said: “To see their initial ideas develop into the end products was inspiring, as was the positive change in people’s self-esteem and confidence."

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