There is a range of communication technology now available to support someone’s existing communication.

They are often called Voice Output Communications Aids or VOCAs. They are electronic devices that can speak one or many message. An individual may use a single button that when pressed speaks a whole pre-recorded sentence or a more complex device where buttons are pressed to select individual words/letters which are then spoken together as a sentence.

Choosing and speaking the messages or words can be done in a variety of ways such as pressing buttons, directly with fingers of operating switches with other body parts for instance, head movements. It is also possible to operate a VOCA using eye-gaze.

It is important to seek specialist assessment and advice if considering introducing a VOCA.

Please see below:-

Talking Point – Alternative forms of communication – http://www.talkingpoint.org.uk/parents/speech-and-language/alternative-forms-communication

Inclusive Technology – http://www.inclusive.co.uk/