SLTs welcome research into communication support needs

15th February 2006

The RCSLT and the Scottish SLT Managers Network (SSLTMN) has warmly welcomed the Scottish Executive's commitment to carry out comprehensive research on communication support needs in Scotland.

Malcolm Chisholm MSP, Minister for Communities (including Equal Opportunities) made the commitment in response to a debate in the Scottish Parliament on 19 January. Nanette Milne MSP (pictured, left), raised a motion to address the problems of the estimated 250,000 people in Scotland with communication support needs.

The motion called for immediate steps to support research to develop a comprehensive and coherent framework for action on communication impairment.

In reply, Mr Chisholm MSP said the Scottish Executive acknowledged that the current position lacked the strategic and comprehensive approach the motion called for.

"We want to broaden our understanding of the issues and ensure we are able to identify and meet the needs of those with communication support needs," Mr Chisholm MSP said.

"I have therefore asked my officials to develop a specification for research...to develop a programme to tackle the very real needs that have been brought to our attention by the Communication Impairment Action Group," he added.

Communication Impairment Action Group Chair Mary Turnbull (pictured, right) said, "We are absolutely delighted with the Minister's response. The lack of a cohesive approach to supporting people with communication impairment was first highlighted by speech and language therapy managers four years ago. We have been working with the RCSLT since then to raise the profile of these issues, and seek solutions at the national level. The Minister's announcement marks a significant step forward in improving the quality of life for those living with communication impairment in Scotland."

For more information contact RCSLT Scotland Policy Officer Kim Hartley, tel: 0131 226 5250 or email: kim.hartley@rcslt.org