AVUK joins launch of Speech, Language and Communication Alliance

Auditory Verbal UK yesterday (5 Feb 2025) joined deaf children, young people with speech and language challenges and organisations supporting them, to celebrate the launch of the Speech, Language and Communication Alliance in Parliament.  

The Alliance has been formed to ensure UK Governments, and national and local policymakers are focused on the issue of speech, language and communication challenges, and the potential impact of these on all babies, children and young people when developing or reviewing policy, legislation and services.   

The event, which was kindly Sponsored by Lord Touhig, saw speeches from inspiring children and young people, as well as Jess Asato, MP for Lowestoft and a member of the Education Committee, and a video message from Stephen Morgan, Minister for Early Education. 

Rafi, 8, and Jasper 17, who were born deaf and learnt to listen and speak with Auditory Verbal therapy, were in Parliament at the event sharing their stories with MPs and Peers.  

They shared their experiences of how early, effective support to develop language and communication has supported them to thrive and flourish at school and beyond.  

Currently, 1.9 million children in the UK (1 in 5) are struggling with talking and understanding words, and the number is increasing. For deaf children, they currently face a lifetime of disadvantage without access to early, effective support to develop language and communication.  

Rafi and Jasper’s parents explained to decision makers and attendees how early identification and diagnosis, as well as a well-trained workforce, is essential to overcoming these challenges.  

Deaf children and young people, including Khush and Alana, also shared their stories of how early and effective support to develop language and communication has supported them, in videos shared with those attending the event.