Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Team
The AAC team supports the use of powered (or electronic) communication devices for children and young people in education settings.
What is AAC?
AAC refers to different ways of communicating either alongside or instead of speech. This can include everything from body language and simple signs or gestures to symbol boards or books and communication devices.
Who are we?
Our team supports children and young people with powered communication devices. We work with families, education settings and other professionals to promote inclusion and good practice.
Our small, friendly team includes:
- AAC Technical Officers - they help with assessments, device set up and ongoing maintenance or repairs
- AAC Education Advisers - they support schools with advice, guidance and training on using devices
What our support looks like
- we work with the NHS as part of the Cornwall AAC Assessment Team (CAACAT) to assess a young person’s suitability for a powered device
- for complex cases, we refer to a specialist assessment team at AAC West.
- following a successful referral, we supply a device and are available to support during a trial period
- if a long-term loan is agreed, we offer continued support and maintenance
- we offer training and advice to those supporting the young person.
How you can request support
- referrals are made through the young person’s Speech and Language Therapist
- the young person must be a resident and have a GP in Cornwall
- we support assessments of young people up to the age of 18
- priority is given to young people with a degenerative condition
Additional help and support
- Caring for your new device
- Making the most of your new device
- How to use the Grid for iPad app
- Grow your skills - specialist-led courses on ACC and assistive technology
- Discover the Proloquo2Go app - enabling nonspeaking children and adults to express themselves confidently