The University of Manchester (UoM) is undertaking a research study entitled “What we want: How can Speech & Language Therapy best meet the needs of autistic children?”, with which they want to find out what priorities and preferences autistic children have for the speech and language support that they receive.
This project explores autistic children’s current and preferred practices in speech and language therapy by seeking the views of the children themselves, as well as their speech and language therapists (S<s).
“Our understanding of autism is evolving, meaning healthcare providers such as S<s need to respond by adapting clinical services.“
The researchers are looking for autistic children and young people (9 to 17 years, 11 months old) to take part in an adapted interview about their priorities and preferences in Speech & Language Therapy.
They hope that the findings will support the development of services in this area.
In the first part of the study, researchers are looking for children & young people who are verbally able. A formal autism diagnosis is important and should follow national clinical guidance on best practice. The interviews will be adapted to meet individual needs.
If your child has more significant language support needs, researchers will be recruiting these children to a related but different study. Please contact them for details.
If you are interested in taking part in the study, please contact the researchers using the “Get Involved” button below.
About the Researchers
This project is being undertaken in collaboration with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Sheffield. It is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
The team includes experienced & DBS-checked autistic researchers and Speech & Language Therapists.
Another Opportunity: Are you a Speech and Language Therapist?
For phase 2 of the study, the researchers are looking for Speech & Language Therapists who work (or have worked) in paediatric services seeing autistic children. All neuro-types welcome.
They would like to hear about your current practice, concerns and working solutions.
Participation will involve (1) a brief chat with researchers by video call (15 minutes), and (2) completing our on-line survey (30 minutes).
You could also opt to take part in a video call interview (60 minutes).
Researchers hope that the findings from this phase will support the development of services in this area.
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