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.