Speech & Language

What are Speech, Language and Communication Needs?

The term speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) describes difficulties across one or many aspects of communication including:

• problems with producing speech sounds accurately
• stammering
• voice problems, such as hoarseness and loss of voice
• problems understanding language (making sense of what people say)
• problems using language (words and sentences)
• problems interacting with others.

For example, difficulties understanding the non-verbal rules of good communication or using language in different ways to question, clarify or describe things Some SLCN are short term and can be addressed through effective early intervention. Others are more permanent and will remain with a person throughout their childhood and adult life.

Speech, language and communication needs can occur in childhood as primary difficulties with speech, language and communication or secondary to other developmental conditions such as autism. They can also be acquired in adulthood.

You might find these websites useful:

https://www.afasic.org.uk/help-for-your-child/not-talking/speech-and-language-therapy/

https://www.england.nhs.uk/ltphimenu/children-and-young-people/speech-language-an

https://youngminds.org.uk/blog/speaking-out-about-selective-mutism/d-communication-services/