Care and support

Support Services

The role of a Speech and Language Therapist in the Autism
Base

The Speech and Language Therapist in the Autism Base works closely with the Base staff as part of the educational process. S/he is involved in the on-going assessment of each child’s speech and language development and can advise staff and parents on the use of signs, pictures or symbols to aid communication.

The therapist works with children individually or in groups:

• to extend the children’s awareness and understanding of the
  world around them.
• to encourage interaction with adults and children.

The emphasis of the therapist’s work is on the development of language and communication; not only on speech.

Other Support Services

Advice and support is available:

• from the Advisory Teacher for autistic spectrum disorders
• from the Specialist Educational Psychologist
• from the educational psychologist attached to the school.

Advice is sought from occupational and physiotherapists, and other Health Service personnel, as and when required.

Close liaison is maintained with Social Services on an individual case basis.