Makaton and BSL (British Sign Language) are similar in one way in that they both use signs and symbols to aid communication. However, while Makaton makes use of these aspects of sign language, it can be used alongside spoken English, which British Sign Language cannot. 

A major difference between the two forms of sign language is that Makaton is used to help hearing people with learning or communication difficulties. Meanwhile, BSL is used as the main source of communication for people who are hard of hearing or completely deaf.