SCTCI works with people with severe speech and communication difficulties who may benefit from using some form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). We aim to help people achieve functional improvements in communication in daily life by accessing opportunities offered by AAC approaches and new technologies. SCTCI is funded on a contractual basis with most of the Health Boards in Scotland and staff are able to see both children and adults either on an outreach basis (in the person’s own environment) or in SCTCI itself. SCTCI offers:

• Assessment: An objective, independent assessment to determine whether an individual may benefit from some form of AAC and to make a personalised recommendation of what is required. The assessment may involve more than one visit and the subsequent recommendation will include details of specific equipment required by the individual, ideas for working with that person, and suggestions for improving communication between that person and significant others in his/her environment. Follow-up and support is provided, as required, to both the individual, his/her family and to key professionals involved.

• Education and Training: Training for people working with individuals who have severe communication difficulties and who may use AAC can be arranged on request. SCTCI has an ongoing programme of workshops and seminars and organises regular training courses for Link Therapists (contact SCTCI for more details).

• Telephone Help Line: SCTCI deals with many enquiries each year, providing information and advice to professionals, individuals with communication difficulties, their families and other carers.

• Specialist Library: We use our library and information bank to answer queries. These resources are available for other people to use (by appointment only). SCTCI has some videos which are available for loan, for training, etc.