Friday Announcements

1.  Barriers to Succeeding with AAC: Smartbox Research Report
From Daisy Clay, Smartbox:

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technology can transform communication for people with speech and language differences – and as we know, there is a huge global need for better access to it. So why do we still see device abandonment happening?

In 2024, with support from Innovate UK and in partnership with SpeakUnique, we set out to explore this. Over six months, we brought together data from a range of sources to better understand the barriers that lead people to stop using their device, and where meaningful change could be made.

Now, two years on, we’ve published a report sharing the findings from this study, alongside the steps we’ve taken at Smartbox to address some of the key challenges it highlights. We believe it’s vital for the AAC community to share knowledge – especially clinical evidence that supports best practice – so we can work together to ensure no one is left without a voice.

Visit our blog to find out more about how we’ve turned insight into action, and access the full report here: Four ways we’re removing barriers to AAC success – Smartbox



2.  ISAAC Online AAC User Chats
From Marcia Gemler, ISAAC:

ISAAC, the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, invites AAC users to meet online for informal chats every two weeks.  The next chat is on Monday 15 June, 7:00PM-8:00PM (UK time).

More information, including chat questions, can be found here:
ISAAC – PWUAAC Online Chats



3.  RCSLT Strategy 2027-2030 Survey
From Peter Just, Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists:

We are currently consulting on what our next strategy (covering the years 2027-2030) should contain and are very keen to hear from partner organisations and those in the community and industry on what you think we do well, what you think we could do better, and what three things you think we should be prioritising in 2027-2030.

We’ve put together a short, anonymous, survey and would be delighted if you were able to fill it out. Click here to go to the survey. 

The deadline for responses is 30 June.



4.  Leeds SEND Youth Council Disability Pride Event
From Caroline Webb, Leeds City Council:

We are the Leeds SEND Youth Council, a group of young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities who work together to share our experiences, represent others, and help make Leeds a more inclusive city.

We would love to invite you to join us for our Disability Pride event:
This is us: Proud to Belong – A SEND Celebration

Date: Wednesday 22 July 2026
Time: 10:30AM – 2:30PM (drop in anytime)
Location: Leeds Kirkgate Market Event Space (food hall)

This event is about celebrating disability, raising awareness, and bringing people together so that no one feels alone. It’s a chance to connect and be part of a welcoming and inclusive space whilst also having fun and enjoying activities and performances.

Everyone is welcome.

For more information, click here.



5.  Specialist Speech & Language Therapist Vacancy – Treloar’s
From Sophie Milroy, Treloar’s:

Treloar’s is a leading charity providing outstanding education, therapy and care to physically disabled children and young people, empowering them to live more independent and fulfilling lives. We are seeking an experienced Speech & Language Therapist to join our highly supportive, on-site SLT team, working across our inspiring School and College campus.

This role offers the opportunity to develop your skills supporting children and young people with physical and neurological disabilities, complex communication needs, and eating and drinking difficulties. You will manage a varied caseload appropriate to your experience and work closely within a well-established multi-disciplinary team alongside education, clinical and residential care colleagues.

We are looking for an HCPC-registered SLT with a minimum of three years’ post-qualification experience, a flexible and collaborative approach, and excellent organisational skills. Experience with AAC is essential, and a postgraduate dysphagia qualification is desirable.

Treloar’s offers term-time-only working, excellent CPD and supervision, wellbeing benefits, free parking, and a truly supportive working environment where your expertise is valued.

To find out more and apply, click here.
 
Closing Date:   Wednesday 8 July 2026 at 12:00PM



6.  Therapy Assistant Practitioner Vacancy – EAT Service Lincoln
From Joanne Pacey, Electronic Assistive Technology Service:

The Electronic Assistive Technology Service in Lincoln are seeking an enthusiastic Therapy Assistant Practitioner with experience and skills in assistive technology  to join our team.

This role is suitable for an experienced therapy assistant who meets the requirements to start at Band 4, or as a developmental role for someone wishing to work towards this band. Although our base is in Lincoln, we cover the East Midlands area plus Milton Keynes and welcome applicants outside the Lincolnshire area.

We would be happy to discuss the role further with anyone interested in applying – call us on 01522 572820. Applications for this role close 28/06/2026.

Apply here: Therapy Assistant Practitioner – EATS



7.  Online SLT & AAC Focus Group Invitation
From Amy Hanschell, University of Dundee:

Exploring Support for Adults with Acquired Communication Disability Using AAC

My name is Amy Hanschell, and I’m a Speech and Language Therapist currently undertaking a clinical academic fellowship at the University of Dundee. I am looking to recruit SLTs who work with adults with acquired communication disabilities to take part in a focus group. 

I am interested in the support that SLTs provide to adults with acquired communication disability after Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) provision. 

To explore and better understand our current scope of clinical actions, I am running online focus groups to discuss the clinical considerations, decision‑making, and knowledge that SLTs draw upon when supporting adults with acquired communication disability to use AAC effectively.

I am seeking SLTs from across the UK who:

• Have experience within the past 5 years of supporting adults with acquired communication disability to use AAC.
• Work in any setting (hospital, care setting, community or other)
• Represent a range of clinical experience, from newly qualified practitioners to experienced clinicians

Participation involves a 2‑hour online focus group, with discussion centred on your clinical practice and experiences.

If you would like further information or are considering taking part, please email me at:
[email protected]



8. Mentoring Project Summer Online Sessions
From Verity Elliot, Mentoring Project:

Save the date of the next online meetings, discussing topics to support in-person conversations, advocating for yourself and mentoring others.

Having a Good Conversation
Tuesday 14 July, 10:30AM – 12:00PM (Microsoft Teams)
This workshop will focus on how to be a good communicator and to be more aware of how we engage with others. We will share ‘tips and tricks’ along with understanding what helps us and what we need when having a good conversation.

This session is free to attend for any AAC users, practitioners, parents and carers.
Register your place here.

Level 1 Award in Mentoring Qualification
Thursday 6 August, 4:00PM – 5:30PM (Microsoft Teams)
Come along to this introduction to the Level 1 Award in Mentoring (NCFE) – our very popular qualification for AAC users. You can see the resources and have a go at an activity. All the support, guidance and resources for the qualification are fully funded by the National Lottery. This session is free to attend for any AAC users, practitioners, parents and carers.

Register your place here.

For any questions or for more information on the Summer Sessions, contact Verity Elliott at [email protected]



9.  CM Conference 2026 – Early Bird Registration Open Now!

Join us in Leeds on 13-15 September 2026 for an exciting event packed full of informative presentations, inspiring stories and insight into the advancing world of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

Our conference offers a diverse programme of events that brings AAC users, their families and carers together with researchers, professionals and suppliers to learn, network, socialise and celebrate.

Early bird conference delegate registrations are now open, with the discounted ticket rate available until 29 June 2026.

Don’t miss this great deal – Book your place now!


10.  Communication Matters AAC Study Day – Book Your Place

Date: Wednesday 16 September
Time: 9:30AM – 4:00PM
Location: University of Leeds

The AAC Study Day involves two workshops, both two and a half hours long, that complement each other with a focus on research, technology and its use in practical applications.

This full day event encourages deep reflection in relation to collaboration, conversation, and design in the field of AAC. The presentations are:

“Co-production in Research”
Presented by Sarah Hayward and Joanna Holmes.

“Designing AAC for In-Time Conversation”
Presented by Prof Jeff Higginbotham, Director of the Communication and Assistive Device Lab (CADL) at the University at Buffalo.

You can book your place at the Study Day as an add-on to Conference attendance, or as a stand-alone ticket. Conference attendance is not required to join us at the study day.

For further information please see: AAC Study Days – Communication Matters


11.  Relaxed Exhibition 2026

Date: Sunday 13 September
Time: 2:30PM – 5:00PM
Location: The Refectory, University of Leeds

The Relaxed Exhibition is a free, pre-conference event for people interested in learning more about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in a quieter environment. With restricted numbers of exhibition delegates on Sunday 13 September, we aim to provide a more sensory-considerate space. The exhibitors will be the UK’s leading suppliers of communication aids, equipment, software and symbol systems.

This event is free of charge for all attendees and refreshments will be provided. Places are limited, so please book early to ensure you can enjoy learning more about AAC in a quieter, calmer pace.

We would also encourage you to spread the word about this event, as it’s a fantastic opportunity to experience a bit of Communication Matters in a more accessible setting. As well as offering a quieter, less busy environment, it’s a great way to introduce AAC and the exhibition to those who may benefit from a calmer pace.

To learn more, click here.


12.  Communication Matters Quality Service Standards – Share Your Views
We are currently updating the Communication Matters Quality Service Standards for AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), and we would like to hear from you.

The standards help guide how communication support is provided across the UK, including support at home, in education, in the workplace, and in the community. This update aims to reflect current practice and ensure the standards are shaped by the experiences of those who use and deliver AAC.

We invite responses from:

• AAC users
• families and carers
• professionals, services, and organisations

The questionnaire explores:

• how communication is supported
• access to AAC services
• support across different life stages
• what good communication support looks like in practice

Your feedback will help identify what is working well, where there are gaps, and what needs to improve. The findings will be used to co-produce updated standards.

The questionnaire can be completed in your own time, and you may skip any questions. Responses will be accepted up until Sunday 14 June.

If you require support or an alternative way to take part, please get in touch with Dr May Agius on [email protected] 

Access the questionnaire here: Communication Matters Quality Service Standards Questionnaire – Fill out form



13.  Call for Book Draw Donations

Are you the author of a recently published (or about to be published) book that addresses any aspect of AAC, either fiction or non-fiction? Would you like to have an image and description of your book included in the CM2026 Conference Programme?

Why not donate a copy to the CM2026 Book Draw! Delegates will have the opportunity to sign up for the Book Draw, which will be held during the International AAC Conference at the University of Leeds on 13-15 September.

If you are interested, please email [email protected]


14.  About Friday Announcements

These ‘Friday Announcements’ comprise weekly product updates, upcoming courses, and supplier news. Please email [email protected] with the item you want to be included by Thursday at 5pm – no more than 200 words (one entry per organisation per week) – and include contact email and/or link so readers can find out further information (no file attachments please).

This newsletter may include links to external websites or third-party content. While these are checked for quality and working links at the time of publication, Communication Matters is not responsible for the content, accuracy, or availability of external sites.