Speech and language therapy benefits people of all ages, for example:

Infants: Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) support premature babies and infants with conditions such as cerebral palsy, cleft palate and Down syndrome from very early in life as well as infants who have difficulties with drinking/swallowing and developing in their early play and communication skills.

Children/Young people: Speech and Language Therapists support children with primary speech, language and communication difficulties for example, developmental language disorder (DLD), speech sounds or selective mutism.

There are lots of ways to support your child's speech and language development through incorporating strategies in everyday activities. Further information regarding this can be found on the websites below:

RCSLT (Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists) — The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (abbreviated as RCSLT) is the professional body for speech and language therapists in the United Kingdom and is a registered charity. 

STAMMA — STAMMA is a charity that offers services, training, helpline, employment and advocacy for people who stammer in the UK.

National Autistic Society — The National Autistic Society is the leading charity for autistic people and provides support, guidance and advice, as well as campaigning for improved rights, services and opportunities to help create a society that works for autistic people.

SMIRA (Selective Mutism Information & Research Association) — SMIRA is a UK Charity that supports families with selectively mute children. It also provides information to health and education professionals involved in the upbringing of such children and young people.

Makaton — Makaton is a unique language programme that uses symbols, signs and speech to enable people to communicate. It supports the development of essential communication skills such as attention and listening, comprehension, memory, recall and organisation of language and expression.

Signalong — Signalong is a key word sign-supported communication system based on British sign language and is used in spoken word order. It uses speech, sign, body language, facial expression and voice tone to reference the link between sign and word.

BBC Tiny Happy People — Tiny Happy People is here to help you develop your child's communication skills. Explore simple activities and play ideas to support your child’s development.

Down’s Syndrome Association — A national organisation, committed to improving quality of life for people who have Down’s syndrome, promoting their right to be included on a full and equal basis with others.  

Speech and Language UK — Speech and Language UK is a charity that provides free resources and services to help children and adults with speech and language challenges.

Afasic — This website supports parents and represents children and young people with speech, language and communication needs.

Thurrock local offer — A Local Offer gives children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), and their families, information about what support services the council thinks are available in their local area.

Essex local offer — A Local Offer gives children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), and their families, information about what support services the council thinks are available in their local area.

Family Hubs Essex and Thurrock — Bringing together local services and advice for babies, children, young people and their families, including Start for Life services for 0 to 2 year olds.

National Deaf Children’s Association — The National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) is a British charity dedicated to providing support, information and advice for deaf children and young people, their families and professionals working with them.

SNAP — SNAP is an Essex charity for families with children and young people who have any additional need or disability.