Other ways of speaking: Ways children and young people with little or no speech communicate

28 June 2011

Imagine being unable to ask for what you want, express how you feel or make a choice about what you do? For some children and young people this is a reality.

June 2011 sees the launch of Other Ways of Speaking, a new information booklet for parents and professionals that provides information on the different ways children and young people with little or no speech communicate, how to support them and where to go for further information and help.

Available to order and download from www.hello.org.uk/resources, Other Ways of Speaking is a free resource that has been produced by The Communication Trust and Communication Matters with its member organisations 1 Voice, ACE Centre, ACE Centre North, The Makaton Charity, Scope and Signalong.

This booklet explores Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), a term that describes a wide range of techniques children and young people use to support or replace spoken communication. Techniques such as using gestures, signing, symbols, boards and books, adapted computers and dedicated Voice Output Communication Aids (VOCAs). http://www.scope.org.uk/help-and-information/communication/aac

Katie Clarke, parent of Nadia who uses a communication aid, says, “As it became clear that my daughter would not be able to talk, we spent hours and hours trying to get hold of the right information to learn how to support her. We learnt the hard way that there was very little information in one place so I am delighted to see this new booklet come out. It is just what families need; everything you need to know to start your journey around alternative communication in one place. I wish it had been around when my daughter was younger.”

Sandra Hartley, a trustee of Communication Matters; the national voluntary organisation for all those involved with AAC, says; “The inability of a child to walk is well recognised and supported with services and provision of equipment. The inability of a child to talk is, even now, sadly not. We all use different ways to support our conversations be it simple facial expressions or gesturing for a drink in a noisy restaurant. We rely on different ways to get our messages across to others.

“For some children and young people with the most severe communication needs, other ways of speaking are needed to ensure they reach their full potential in life. These children and young people have so much to give. We welcome the launch of Other Ways of Speaking to raise awareness and break down barriers to help those who use AAC fulfil their potential and enlighten commissioners as to the huge need for provision of services for this neglected population.”.

Anna Reeves, Manager, from Ace Centre North, says; “This 'easy to read' booklet includes ten top tips to help people who have little or no experience of talking to people who use AAC. The real life stories depicted in Other Ways of Speaking are powerful in helping people understand what AAC is all about.

“It is imperative that the needs of children and young people who have difficulties speaking are identified at an early age. This will help ensure they receive the best support as they face the challenges of learning to communicate. Finding the right method of communication can have a dramatic impact on a child or young person's life - helping them to express themselves, participate in decisions, and improve their self esteem, which will ultimately impact on their contribution to society at large.”

In the UK today, one in ten children and young people have long term or persistent difficulties with speech, language and communication. Of these children, 1% has the most severe difficulties with communication affecting their ability to express even their most basic needs.

Other Ways of Speaking forms an important new addition to The Communication Trust and Hello resource portfolio and has been launched to coincide with this month's theme 'Imagine life for those who struggle'.

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