What are speech and language needs?

Speech and language needs can include:

• unclear speech (speech sounds)
• not understanding what is being said (understanding of spoken language)
• vocabulary and putting words together into sentences (spoken language)
• mixing with other children and adults (social communication skills)
• only speaking in certain situations (selectively mute)
• stammering or stuttering
• hoarse or husky sounding voice
• hearing impairment / deafness.

More information and support

• For more information about communication - http://www.communicationmatters.org.uk/
• For more information about Afasic - A voice for life - http://www.afasic.org.uk/
• For more information about Makaton (signing) - https://www.makaton.org/shop/
• For more information about Autism - http://www.autism.org.uk/
• For more information about Stammering - https://www.stammering.org/
• For more information about deafness - http://www.ndcs.org.uk/
• For more information about Cleft Lip or Palate - https://www.clapa.com/
• For more information on Children's Communication - http://www.talkingpoint.org.uk/

Referrals and getting assessed

At school we will complete a screening using the therapies pack and or a computer program called language link.  If difficulties are identified then we will support at school.  If the difficulties are more complex then we will refer to Solent NHS SALT.  

They have an integrated referral form offering the choice of service you require. You can refer to more than one service if needed, in which case a fully integrated assessment will take place.

Referral forms must be completed in full with a parent / guardian signature.

Children’s Therapy Service has an open referral system, which means we accept referrals from anyone including:

• Parents / Carers
• paediatricians
• GPs
• health visitors or other health care professionals, including audiologists
• pre-school or school staff.