Bridging the Gap: Developing a Transition Pathway for Young AAC Users moving from School to Adult services
Aim of project:
- To maintain and improve the communication skills of young people with severe communication impairments using high tech communication aids through the transition period from school to adult services
- To improve the communication skills and awareness of AAC for third sector and social care staff
Speech and Language Therapy children services identified one staff member with experience working with teenagers and AAC to join the Keycomm team one day per week. A transition pathway was identified which included support, training and awareness for the receiving services 6 months prior to the leaving date and for 4 months after the leaving date. The pathway consisted of service protocols, information and support to families and staff, coordination of existing children and adult therapy staff, and an exit strategy as this was a short term transition service This short term support service bridged the gap between school leaving and being supported by the Adult Community Learning Disability service.
In addition, family support and awareness was also given as it was identified that the families input for the young person would be increasing once they left school.
Keycomm 