2.6. Explain how to access additional support or services to enable individuals to communicate effectively

This guide will help you answer 2.6. Explain how to access additional support or services to enable individuals to communicate effectively.

Effective communication is a key part of health and social care. Some individuals, though, may face barriers to communication. To help them communicate effectively, we may need to access additional support or services. This ensures their needs are met, their voice is heard, and they can participate fully in their care and daily life.

This guide looks at the resources and services available to improve communication and how to access them.

Barriers to Communication

Before accessing support, it’s important to consider what barriers the individual is facing. Some common barriers to communication include:

• Hearing impairments or deafness
• Visual impairments or blindness
• Speech difficulties or disorders
• Learning disabilities
• Limited understanding of English or other languages
• Emotional distress or anxiety
• Autism or other neurodiverse conditions that affect social communication

Understanding these barriers can help identify the appropriate support or service required.

Specialist Communication Services

Specialist communication services focus on supporting individuals with specific communication needs. Some of the key services include:

Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) work with individuals who have speech, language, or swallowing difficulties. SLTs provide assessments and personalised strategies to support an individual’s communication. They can also help develop alternative means of communication, such as gesture use or communication aids.

To access SLT:

• Speak to the GP or healthcare provider for a referral.
• In some cases, teachers or social workers can assist with referrals.
• Private SLT services are also available for those who can fund them.

Interpreters and Translators

Interpreters help individuals who do not speak English or who use British Sign Language (BSL). They translate spoken or signed language so that individuals can understand and be understood. This includes both verbal interpreters and written translators.

To access interpreting services:

• Contact local authorities or charities offering free language services.
• Many GP surgeries can arrange interpreters for medical appointments.
• Organisations such as SignHealth specialise in BSL interpreting.

Communication Support Workers

Communication Support Workers (CSWs) often support people with hearing impairments. They may use BSL or other techniques, such as lip reading or text communication. CSWs ensure people have fair access to services, education, or work settings.

To find CSWs:

• Contact national charities like Action on Hearing Loss or local deaf services.
• Employers may also provide CSWs as part of reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010.

Assistive Technology and Communication Aids

Technology has made a big difference in improving communication for individuals with additional needs. Some tools and devices that enhance communication include:

Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants

Hearing aids amplify sounds and enable some hearing for individuals with hearing loss. Cochlear implants can provide another option for those with profound deafness. Support for securing devices can come through consultants or audiology departments.

Accessing these devices involves:

• GPs or audiologists referring individuals for an assessment.
• If funding is required, charities such as Hearing Dogs for Deaf People may also help.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices

AAC devices help individuals who cannot speak or struggle to do so. Examples include picture communication systems, iPads with special apps or software, and speech-generating devices.

To obtain AAC devices:

• Speak to a Speech and Language Therapist, who can recommend suitable options.
• Local or national charities may offer funding or advice. For example, Communication Matters is a UK charity supporting AAC users.
• Some schools or social services may provide AAC tools.

Textphones and Relay Services

People who are deaf or hard of hearing can send and receive text-based messages using accessible landline phones or relay services. Text relay services also help individuals to communicate with hearing people over the phone.

These services are accessed via:

• Telecommunications providers offering textphones.
• Free national relay services, including BT Text Relay or Relay UK.

Accessing Community-Based Support

If specific services aren’t enough, individuals may benefit from wider community initiatives to aid communication.

Peer Support Groups

Peer groups can provide an essential support network for individuals with similar communication difficulties. These groups encourage sharing experiences and learning new communication strategies together.

You can find peer support through:

• Local charities or voluntary organisations.
• Community centres offering group meetings.
• Online communities and forums.

Advocacy Services

Advocates help individuals express their wishes and understand their rights. They can communicate on someone’s behalf or provide tools for more independent communication. Advocates are particularly relevant when mental capacity or complex needs are a concern.

To contact advocacy services:

• Seek referrals from social workers or health professionals.
• Many councils fund independent advocacy services.
• Organisations such as VoiceAbility or Mencap offer support.

Educational Support

Schools and colleges often have their own resources or Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCOs). Such professionals identify learning and communication barriers and arrange additional services or tools for students.

Parents or carers can:

• Request an assessment for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
• Work alongside SENCOs to explore support options.

Professional Training

Care workers and health professionals also need the right skills to support individuals effectively. Consider accessing professional training in areas like:

• Sign language (including British Sign Language).
• Alternative communication techniques, such as using symbols or visual schedules.
• Working with diverse cultural needs in communication.

Training is provided through:

• Care organisations or local training providers.
• Charities like Makaton UK or the National Autistic Society.
• Online learning platforms offering accessible courses.

Accessing Support through Organisations and Charities

Some organisations and charities specifically offer help with communication challenges. These include:

• Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) – for hearing loss or tinnitus support.
• Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) – for visual impairment services.
• Contact – supporting families of children with disabilities.
• AbilityNet – providing technology solutions for disabled users.
• Sense – supporting people with multisensory impairments.

Working in partnership with such groups ensures that individuals can directly receive the help that meets their specific communication needs.

The Referral Process

Access to additional services or support often requires referrals. These steps are typical of the process:

1. Identify the need – Engage in conversation with the individual or their family to understand issues.
2. Contact relevant professionals – You may go through the GP, a social worker, or a therapist.
3. Complete required forms – Most organisations need application forms or details of medical assessments.
4. Arrange an assessment – Many services involve an in-depth assessment of communication needs.
5. Work through feedback – Use advice from these assessments to select the most useful support tools or services.
6. Secure funding if needed – Look for available options like council funding or grants.

Every referral must be recorded following your organisation’s policies. Maintaining accurate records ensures transparency, avoids missed follow-ups, and strengthens the individual’s support plan.

Legal Framework Supporting Communication

The legal system offers guidance to ensure everyone is given the tools to communicate.

The Equality Act 2010

This law protects individuals from discrimination related to disability or language barriers. Employers or service providers must make reasonable adjustments, like providing assistive devices or interpreters.

Mental Capacity Act 2005

This act ensures that individuals unable to make decisions receive appropriate support, including help with communication during assessments.

Children and Families Act 2014

It focuses on communication support within education for children with disabilities, ensuring tailored plans meet their needs.

Accessible Information Standard

All organisations providing NHS or publicly funded care must offer information in accessible formats—for example, easy-read leaflets for those with learning disabilities.

Understanding these laws helps guarantee your role follows best practice in assisting communication.

Conclusion

Providing additional communication support is about meeting the needs of individuals so they can express themselves confidently and clearly. You can access help by working with health professionals, charities, and specialist services. Use tools like interpreters, assistive technology, and training to tailor solutions to individual needs. By understanding the resources available and the steps needed to access them, you ensure that individuals are treated with dignity and respect. This reinforces positive relationships, equality, and person-centred care.