KEYCOMM is a regional communication aid centre providing a service to individuals, schools, centres and institutions located within the City of Edinburgh and surrounding districts. KEYCOMM exists to help people of all ages with communication impairments make use of technology to contribute to and control their environments. The service is multi-agency funded (Health, Social Work and Education) and also has partnerships with Stevenson College and the Bioengineering Centre.

KEYCOMM’s aims are to provide:

* a Regional Multi-disciplinary service for people with communication disorders with a view to recommending appropriate equipment.

* training and information to professionals, carers, and users about the use and application of technology.

* a long term, support service for all those involved with communication technology.

KEYCOMM offers core services including information on available equipment, extensive assessment, medium to long term loan of equipment, and inservice training and support. Our Regional Resource Centre has facilities for training, a library including books, journals and materials within the field of AAC, and a display of up to date electronic and non-electronic communication aids.

KEYCOMM now has a well established special needs toy library consisting of a wide range of switch operated toys for young children. We also have individual leaflets with explanatory notes in the use of these toys and how to troubleshoot when something doesn't work.

KEYCOMM also has an extensive School Support Service which aims to support teachers and other staff in implementing communication technology systems into the classroom.