A NEW project to help those with learning difficulties is being pioneered by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The organisation is aiming to become the first emergency service in the country to be Makaton-friendly after a trailblazing example set by firefighters in Romsey

Makaton is a sign-based way of communicating that can be used by those with conditions that affect their use of language such as autism and Down Syndrome.

The organisation plans to get crews from across the county to learn this technique.

In Romsey, community safety officer and on-call firefighter Phil Nicholson and watch manager Antony Hurle arranged these courses with Hannah Anderson, from Speaking Space, who founded the project.

The course teaches 20 general terms such as greetings and 10 bespoke to an industry or the organisation ie there’s a person in there, do you need help, come with me, etc.

Ms Anderson said: “The emergency services are a key part of the project. In an emergency situation communication is vital and a few simple signs could make all the difference.

“Even being able to greet people in the street would just help people – who are often nervous around people in uniform – know that firefighters are always there to help.”

She added that she is currently working on other areas of Hampshire and has been speaking to groups in Andover and Gosport.

Fire service head of inclusion Paul Breakwell said: “Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do as a service.

“Every firefighter is passionate about keeping the communities of Hampshire safe and improving people’s lives. Learning Makaton is a natural progression for us.”