The ability to communicate is fundamental to a basic quality of life, yet for many people effective communication is difficult because of a physical impairment, language disorder or learning disability. We work with people of all ages who face just such challenges.

     

We provide help and expertise in the field of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT). Our team of therapists, teachers and technicians provide a range of core specialist services including assessments, equipment loans, training and information, as well as undertaking project and consultancy work for local and central statutory services.

 

What's new from ACE Centre North

ACE Centre North's phone number has changed to 0161 358 0151

 

Communication Matters 2010 Small Grant Scheme:

We welcome applications for 'not-for-profit' projects in the UK that further the aims of Communication Matters (applicants must be UK residents).

The closing dates are 1 March 2010 and 30 June 2010.

For further information and an application form, please follow the link below:

Download Small Grants application form and further details (MS Word document)

If you require more information, please ring Communication Matters on 0845 456 8211 or email admin@communicationmatters.org.uk

 

New Ability World website - David Weatherburn (formerly from Liberator) has established a new company specialising in products with a strong focus on meeting adult / elderly needs.  Click here for more details.

TalkSense Training courses  - Tony Jones will be delivering five exciting courses at the ACE Centre North between 26th - 30th April.  Click here for more details.

 

Network Days

For presentations from out recent Thursday 10th December Network Day Click here.

Presentations from previous Networks Days are also available to download.

 

The Children’s Secretary, Ed Balls has recently announced the appointment of Jean Gross as England’s first Communication Champion. Read More

 

A few links to useful freely downloadable and open source software as well as a few website links for programs and sites that we have found useful over the last year. - Best Free Downloads 2010

 

Home Access

ACE Centre North is currently supporting the provision of Assistive Technology in the two pilots for the Home Access Programme, which is due to be rolled out across the country at the end of this year.  The pilots in Oldham and Suffolk will provide valuable information on how best to ensure ALL children and young people who require specialist technology to support their home learning get the equipment they need through this exciting opportunity. Further information about the Home Access Pilots is available from: http://www.nextgenerationlearning.co.uk/homeaccess

"Home Access will help bridge the gap for families who are in danger of falling through the digital divide. 

It is important that every child has the opportunity to develop their learning through new technology and I am determined that there should be no barriers for disabled children in exploring the digital world. Providing adapted equipment and devices at home will help to ensure that disabled children make progress and achieve their full potential.” Ed Balls MP Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families.

 

Service Level Agreements - a range of tariffs providing a cost effective way of accessing our core services.  For more information, contact us on 0161 358 0151.

Building Schools for the Future (BSF) - find out how we can help you to plan for and prepare your school's special needs ICT specification

Looking for Specialist Status  - find out how we can help.

 

Recommended Reading

AT & AAC Resources - click here to look at our range of Voice Output Communication Aids and Access devices available for loan. Price List

'Better Communication' - produced by the Government in response to the Bercow Review recommendations, this document lays out an action plan to improve services for children and young people with speech and language communication needs. Click here to read the full action plan

Communication Aid Provision - 'A review of the Literature' (published by SCOPE)

Focus On   - Now available to download in pdf and PowerPoint format:- A series of seven introductory topics related to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), written in a clear and easy-to-understand style by Communication Matters.

'No Voice, No Choice' - produced by Scope The latest report from Scope’s ‘No Voice, No Choice’ campaign.