Speech and Language Therapy

The Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) Service supports the vision of the NRH as ‘a respectful, accessible environment where you matter, and people care’.  The SLT team are committed to providing high quality, evidence informed services for people with an acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury or limb absence that:

• optimise the person’s recovery of communication and, or swallowing skills
• minimise the impact of difficulties with communication and, or swallowing on the person’s life
• maximise the person’s potential to fulfil their life roles following communication and, or swallowing, eating and drinking difficulties

SLTs in the NRH use a person-centred approach in their work, meaning:

• • taking time to understand the person’s world, preferences and wishes, and those of their family so that it guides how we deliver services
  • working closely with all members of the Interdisciplinary Team in the NRH including the person and his or her family
  • providing information in a way that the person and his or her family can best understand and use it

In addition, the Speech & Language Therapist provides advice and training on supportive communication, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices or Electronic Assistive Technology EAT. This includes communication methods used to supplement, replace or support natural speech or writing for those with impairments in producing or undertanding spoken or written language

Augmentative and Alternative Communication device a generic term that describes a range of equipment including environmental controls systems, communication aid equipment and equipment used accessing computer or mobile technology. EAT and AAC methods vary and may be personalised to meet each individual’s needs.

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If a Speech and Language Therapist is involved in your care, this may include:

• • Assessing and treating any communication difficulties you may experience as a result of your injury or illness. Communications skills include speaking, understanding, reading and writing.
  • Assessing and treating swallowing difficulties that you may experience as a result of your injury or illness.
  • Providing education and support to you and your family about your communication and swallowing skills

In addition, the Speech and Language Therapist provides advice and training on supportive communication devices (AAC) or Electronic Assistive Technology EAT. This includes ways of communicating to replace or support natural speech or writing for those with difficulties in spoken or written language.

EAT and AAC methods vary and may be personalised to meet each individual’s needs.

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