Local play areas are becoming more welcoming for all children with the introduction of new inclusive signs designed to help communication. New boards featuring Widgit Symbols and the British Sign Language (BSL) alphabet have been installed at Markeaton Park, Alvaston Park, and the Arboretum.
Derby City Council’s Parks team worked with Derby charity Umbrella to develop a specialised communication board using Widgit Symbols. These symbols are a globally recognised tool, featuring a library of over 20,000 icons that translate complex vocabulary into clear, colourful illustrations. By representing single concepts simply, they allow children of all ages and abilities to express their needs and interact with their peers more easily.
In addition to the Widgit boards, a dedicated British Sign Language (BSL) sign has been installed. This sign features the BSL finger-spelling alphabet, inviting all visitors to learn the basics of signing. The initiative aims to empower BSL users while encouraging hearing children to engage with a new form of communication.
The new signs are designed to raise awareness of the diverse ways people connect. By integrating these tools into public play spaces, the project aim to make children who use on Widgit or BSL to feel seen, heard, and included in their local community. Plans are underway to install further communication around the city as part of the Council’s commitment to developing inclusive and accessible parks and green spaces.
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Parks and Leisure, said:
By introducing these Widgit and BSL signs, we are removing barriers to communication and ensuring that our play areas are truly inclusive spaces.
We would like to extend a huge thank you to Umbrella for their invaluable help and expertise in making this project a reality. It’s wonderful to see children of all abilities being given the tools to connect and play together.
Umbrella is a Derby-based charity that supports children and young people with any additional needs, including physical, sensory, learning, and behavioural disabilities.
Nicola Green, Project Manager of Play and Leisure at Umbrella, said:
We are extremely pleased that communication boards are being installed in Derby’s parks. Communication is vital for everyone, and having these resources available is fantastic.
Many children and adults with disabilities already use these symbols at home or in educational settings, and it’s wonderful that they can now access the same support within the community.
These boards also help raise awareness of the different communication aids people use, promoting greater understanding and inclusivity for all.
You can find more information about Derby’s Parks on the InDerby website.