Professor Stephen Hawking said more important than freedom of speech is the freedom to speak. We believe that everyone should be given the support they need to communicate, be understood and fulfil their potential. That means as well as working directly with individuals and their families, we are also active within the health and education sectors to ensure that as many practitioners as possible supporting and treating adults with communication needs have access to the most up to date technology and solutions.
We’re always looking for new ways to support, share and develop innovations and our popular study days are an opportunity to join together to shape AT and AAC services now and in the future.
Research shows that early access to alternative communication resources and solutions can significantly improve outcomes for patients and help health and education professionals manage case-loads. The ability to communicate not only impacts on everyday living and independence but also enables people to express their own choices and be active in their care and medical treatment, as well as life decisions such as finances and relationships.
But we also know that for practitioners working with people who have acquired communication needs access to the latest research, skills and technology can sometimes be difficult due to cost, time pressures or staff resources. We wanted to help change that and so our special study days grew!
For those of us working with adults with communication needs we’re very aware that it’s not a one size fits all response. Our clients’ communication needs change and develop over time, there is on-going requirement for assessments and tech solutions also have to be adaptive and responsive. That’s why it’s vital that we share good practice and provide professionals with access to the latest developments.
Our next event on 26 March 2019 brings together expert insights and practical experience, as well as a hands-on technology showcase of some of the latest augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices/resources available. A key element is our shared experience – so whether you’ve been working with clients for some time or are newly qualified, whether you work with the hospital, school, community or home environment – together we’re developing a strong communication foundation within the health and education community.
Our Abingdon Centre study day will include;
- Expert Insights from a range of experts in the field. Speakers include Richard Cave who will outline a Motor Neuron Disease Association project which enables people with MND to make their own decision about Voice Banking. The Access to Technology and Communication (ACT) team (Birmingham) will share experience of helping clients capture spoken messages, laughter and vocal mannerisms to help them hold on to their own identity.
- Technology Showcase will enable practitioners to have hands on demonstrations with latest technology and software products.
For more information about the Study Day programme and to book your place go to www.acecentre.org.uk/event/network-day or contact:
Date: Tuesday 26th March 2019 – 9.00am to 4.00pm
Location : Ace Centre, South Office, 5 Hitching Court, Blacklands Way, Abingdon Business Park, Oxfordshire, OX14 1RG
Cost: £50 including refreshments and a buffet lunch
