Useful websites and leaflets

Makaton is a communication programme used with both children and adults who have communication difficulties.  The programme uses gesture, facial expression, eye contact, body language, signs and picture symbols in addition to speech.

Widgit Software publishes educational software, particularly focusing on improving communication and literacy.

The National Autistic Society champions the rights and interests of all people with autism and makes sure that they and their families receive quality services appropriate to their needs.

ACE Centre North is a chartitable company that offers a wide range of services to support communication and learning through the use of Assistive Technology and Alternative & Augmentative Communication systems.  It also provides resources for children and adults with physical and communication difficulties.

The Downs Syndrome Association is the only organisation in the country which focuses solely on all aspects of living successfully with Down's Syndrome.  It provides information and support for people with Down's Syndrome, their families and carers, as well as being a resource for interested professionals.

Scope is the disability organisation in England and Wales whose focus is people with cerebral palsy.  Its aim is that disabled people achieve equality: a society in which they are as valued and have the same human and civil rights as everyone else.

Inclusive technology provides the very best special educational needs software, switches and computer access devices, simple communication aids and assistive technology for learners with a physical disability, sensory impairment or learning difficulty. 

AbilityNet is a registered national charity with over 20 years experience helping people adapt and adjust their information and communications technology (ICT).  Their special expertise is making sure that whatever your age, health condition, disability or situation you find exactly the right way to adapt or adjust your ICT to make it easier to use.

LearningGrids is a free site providing hundreds of classroom resources for Crick software customers.  Most of the resources are created by their in-house curriculum team of qualified teachers.  In addition, they include materials submitted to them by teachers, all of which are fully tested before they are made available.

Intensive Interaction is an approach to teaching the pre-speech fundamentals of communication to children and adults who have severe learning difficulties and/or autism and who are still at an early stage of communication development.

The CALL Centre (Communication Aids for Language and Learning) provides specialist expertise in technology for children who have speech, communications and/or writing difficulties.  In this website you will find information, guidance and resources on how Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can make a major impact on the education of children and people with disabilities or special educational and communication needs.

Understanding Individual Needs is a website dedicated to developing the understanding of the lives and circumstances of people with learning disabilities.  It's aim is to help families, friends, social care and health professionals provide the best possible care and support for people with learning disabilities.