Up to two thirds of children identified with speech, language and communication needs require support to make progress and there is evidence that intervention for speech, language and communication difficulties is effective. The challenge is knowing when and how to identify the children who need and will benefit from this intervention.
Dr Yvonne Wren led a team of researchers from the University of Bristol, Cardiff Metropolitan University and the Bristol Speech and Language Therapy Research Unit to review existing screening tools and provide evidence to inform the development of a screening approach suitable for the population of Wales.
Julie Morgan MS, Deputy Minister for Social Services announced this week that the Welsh Government have committed up to £1.5m over three years to develop a SLC identification tool for use with young children. The development plan for the tool was informed by research involving Bristol Speech and Language Therapy Research Unit, Cardiff Metropolitan University and Bristol University.
Find out more about Yvonne Wren's project here.
Investment of £1.5m to develop a Speech, Language and Communication (SLC) identification tool for young children
31 August 2022
Early speech, language and communication difficulties can have a long-term impact into adulthood with effects reported on literacy, social and emotional wellbeing and employment. By identifying children who are at risk of language difficulties early in life it is possible for them to receive intervention in a timely manner to prevent any potential wider effects.