Patients at Stepping Hill Hospital were treated to a unique performance from the Vivo Makaton choir this week (17-23 June). 

The choir used the Makaton language in their performance, which comprises signs, symbols and speech. 

It allows people with certain disabilities to communicate more easily. 

The Vivo choir were invited to perform at Stepping Hill as part of national disabilities week. A Stockport NHS spokesperson said: "The choir's mission is to celebrate diversity and facilitate communication for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. 

"It made them the ideal guests for the week.

Vivo itself is an in-house care service that delivers a range of support for people with learning disabilities and autism, and also older people, including those with dementia.

All of the choir members were either Vivo staff or service users. 

Visitors, staff and patients at Stepping Hill 'hugely enjoyed' the performance. 

Mags Deakin, of Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, described the Vivo Makaton choir's performance as 'joyful'. 

"Everyone hugely enjoyed the performance, and we'd like to say a big thank you to everyone involved for their visit. 

"As well as entertaining, [the choir] inspired and helped raise awareness about inclusivity and the power of communication.

"They were also a great example of our increasing working with partners to ensure that all patients, regardless of their individual needs and circumstances, can access the care they require."

~

To get our top stories in your inbox each week, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter HERE.

Please consider following Stockport Nub News on Facebook or Twitter