Midweek, we focused on communication in all the forms it takes.

We saw powerful examples of people expressing themselves through speech, signs, AAC devices, behaviour, and body language. From choosing meals to saying “yes” with a smile, these moments reminded us that communication isn’t about how you speak, it’s about being heard and understood.

Support staff also reflected on what they’ve learned from supporting people who use communication aids, offering insight into the importance of patience, creativity, and connection.

View Day 1: See Who Am I
View Day 2: See My Interests
View Day 4: See My Community

 

 

Crossbrook

Most of the people we support can understand and communicate with staff using communication aids such as whiteboards and marker pens, objects of reference and Makaton.
Communication aids help empower the people we support and enhance their quality of life, thereby instilling confidence in them and helping them participate in decision-making about their lives and wellbeing.

 

We asked some support workers, “What has it been like supporting someone who uses communication aids?”

“As a support worker seeing the people we support express themselves effectively using their various communication aids feels rewarding”

 

“At times, it’s challenging for the people we support to adapt to new communication methods, which poses communication challenges to both the support worker and the people we support”

 

“As a support worker, it’s challenging at times finding the right communication approach to support some of the people we support”

 

 

 

Lilas & Shulas

James recently moved to Lilas & Shulas as his old home, Squirrel Lodge, has closed. In the video below, with his support worker, he expresses his feelings about moving into Lilas & Shulas.