A new team has been launched to help the children who need speech and language therapy.
The Speech, Language and Communication Alliance was launched in the House of Lords to ensure government and policymakers focus on the impact of communication challenges on children and young people.
Dr Beth Moulam, from York, who received her first electronic communication device at the age of four, shared her personal experience of early intervention at the launch. She said:
“A well-trained children’s workforce is essential.
“First, when professionals presume our competence, have high expectations of our success, and provide consistent input, we can be empowered to fulfil our own communication and life potential.
“Second, that learning does not stop at the school gate so besides upskilling school staff, we should be training families and other professionals to model good communication skills.
“Finally, good communication support should not stop with a new teacher, different school or a changed environment, it is essential the multi-disciplinary team around children with special needs work together for best outcomes.”
Rachael Maskell MP for York Central said:
“It was a pleasure meeting with Dr Moulam, in Parliament when she shared the power and importance of communication.
“Too many young people are waiting far too long before they are assessed and supported with their speech, language and communication needs and yet when they are able to engage it released new opportunities for them.
“The challenges in later life can also be frustrating.
“It just goes to show how amazing speech and language therapists are at unlocking people’s communication and providing them the arena through which to express themselves.”