Speech Therapy and Augmentative and Alternative Communication

The Speech and Language Therapy Department

Communication:

The Speech and Language Therapy team comprises 3 therapists and a full time assistant. We are based within the Learning & Skills Department but work across the whole college. We aim to encourage a 24-hour approach to promoting students` communication. All students should have an effective MEANS of communication (whether this is their own speech, use of signs or symbols or a communication aid.) They need REASONS and OPPORTUNITIES for communication and to work within an environment that supports any difficulties in comprehension that they may have. By supporting communication needs we aim to enhance students' abilities to make choices, become more independent and achieve their learning goals.

Eating and drinking:

Speech and Language Therapists also work closely with Care staff to assess students` eating and drinking needs. We produce joint feeding guidelines that are circulated to key staff and updated regularly. Our work includes:

• Assessment (both formal and informal) and for eating and drinking.

• Individual and group therapy.

• Communication support in classroom, social and community settings.

• Production of symbolised resources e.g.. “All About Me” books and communication books.

• Supporting the use of Voice Output Communication Aids (VOCAs)

• Liaison with colleagues and families

• Staff training – including training in signing.

• Supporting students in case reviews.

• Ensuring communication goals and eating and drinking guidelines are shared with all key staff.  

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Portland’s AAC team provides specialist support for learners with communication difficulties. Working closely with the Speech and Language Therapy Department, we offer in-class support in all areas of the curriculum along with discrete, intensive tuition. AAC support is tailored to suit every learner’s needs on an individual basis and covers:

Initial and ongoing assessment Language development  Use of low-tech AAC aids (symbol boards etc)  The programming of electronic AAC devices  Switching skills  Environmental control work

The AAC team are proactive in ensuring that AAC users are supported throughout the waking day, and offer regular training opportunities to staff, family members and support workers.

Assistive and Adaptive Technology (AAT) 

Linked to AAC is the AAT team who provide specialist technical support throughout the Learning and Skills Department. Working closely with the AAC team, Physiotherapy Department and Occupational Therapists, the team covers all aspects of Assistive and Adaptive Technology including:

Initial and ongoing assessment Advice regarding specialised Information Learning Technology provision The manufacture of bespoke switches The manufacture of bespoke, ergonomic access solutions, mounting kits etc. Tuition in the use of environmental control units Support in using electronic AAC devices to access computers Maintenance and repair of AAC equipment/co-ordination of external repairs Internal and external training

For further information on Augmentative and Alternative Communication or Assistive and Adaptive Technology please contact Matt Harrison, Research and Development Manager.

Click here to email Matt Harrison.