In Scotland, there is no distinction between “specialised” and “local” services as elsewhere in the UK. Instead, AAC services are provided by local teams and supported by the national AAC services and, in some areas, by the regional services.

Local teams (within each Health Board area) and regional services are funded by the NHS, local Authorities and, in some cases, third sector organisations.

There is a designated AAC Lead at each Health Board who is responsible for overseeing clinical services. Independent services are run privately – you may have to pay for them.

The National Centre for Electronic Assistive Technology (NCEAT) Wales is commissioned and funded directly by NHS Wales.

The NCEAT Service undertakes assessment and ongoing review of a persons’ needs. It provides and equipment and training for people with the most complex communication and environmental needs.

Local AAC services, funded by local NHS Health Boards, provide low-tech AAC provision and support. Registered health care professionals can refer you to NCEAT for a hi-tech assessment.

Registered Health Care Professionals can refer into NCEAT for a high-tech assessment.

The NHS funds Northern Ireland’s specialised service, which is delivered by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT). Speech and Language Therapists at local NHS-funded Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCT) work with the specialised service to determine who can be referred.

Generally, you will need to pay for assessment yourself if you choose to go private at an independent service.