Latest news

People with speech and communication difficulties can now benefit from a new symbol that is expected to function like the universally recognised wheelchair access sign.  The symbol, developed by disability agency Scope, will be awarded to businesses and services that demonstrate preparedness to work with people who have communication disabilities and communicate in ways other than speech.

In order to display the Communication Access symbol, businesses will have to be assessed by someone with little or no speech and meet special criteria developed in consultation with people with communication difficulties.

The checklist of 29 criteria, to be listed on Scope’s website, includes displaying clear signage, providing information in a variety of formats, providing extra time for service, as well as staff interaction.

Speech Pathology Australia is proud to have been part of the Communication Access Advisory Group and looks forward to continue working towards a more communication accessible Australia. 

For more information, go to www.scopevic.org.au.

Have you ever stopped to think about what it would be like to be unable to swallow?

To be unable to eat food .

To be unable to meet friends for a drink after work.

To not know when you might get your life back.

Swallow: A Documentary allows us a glimpse into the lives of three people with dysphagia, or disordered swallowing, and the enormous effect this has on the way they interact with the world around them.  Swallow was produced by the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders and The Center for Voice and Swallowing at the University of California and aims to raise awareness about dysphagia and bring much needed attention to the millions of people who suffer from disordered swallowing.

So take 15 minutes from your day to hear these people's stories and gain a better understanding of dysphagia and how it may effect someone close to you.