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Complex Communication Needs (0-19 years)

This service is for children and young people with more complex or long-term communication needs.

Who is this for?

Children and young people with more complex or long-term communication needs, including those who may need support with early interaction, understanding language, expressing themselves, or using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

What support do we offer?

Universal Support

Universal support is available to everyone and can be accessed without referral to Speech and Language Therapy.

Useful Links and Resources:

  • MindMate – Neurodiversity Information Hub – Advice and support for children and young people with autism, ADHD, communication and sensory needs.
  • Makaton Charity – Information and resources to help children and young people communicate using signs and symbols alongside speech.
  • Intensive Interaction – A relationship-based approach that supports early communication skills such as attention, turn-taking and shared enjoyment.
  • Ace Centre – Specialist advice and support around AAC and assistive technology for children and young people with complex communication needs.
  • Contact Charity – Useful family-facing support organisation for parents of disabled children and young people, as well as those with complex needs.

Makaton Training for families and professionals:

We offer Makaton training to parents, carers, education staff, and health professionals.

For more information, please see our ‘Next steps and resources’ section.

Targeted Support

  • Joint target setting with teaching staff in the Special Schools and the children and young people’s families.
  • Provision of training to support implementation of programmes and strategies.
  • Provision of an Intervention Plan for school and home.
  • Advice on using visuals, Makaton and low-tech AAC supports
  • Support with modelling communication and building interaction skills
  • Liaison with education staff and other professionals
  • Monitoring and review to help decide whether specialist support is needed

Specialist Support