Communication is a complex skill that develops gradually over time from the moment a child is born. It is important that children develop a firm foundation of earlier skills such as listening and playing so that they can successfully develop later skills such as using tricky sounds and spelling.
If you're worried about your child's communication skills, there are various resources and support systems to assist you. Seeking help early can lead to positive outcomes in your child's communication development.
The Worcestershire Speech and Language Therapy team have developed videos and additional resources to share their expertise so you can support your child at home in advance of your appointment. You can find the videos and resources on Children’s Speech and Language Therapy resources - Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust
Speech and language therapists work in partnership with children, their families and other professionals in a variety of friendly settings including:
- Family Hubs: Every Starting Well Partnership Family Hub has a named speech and language therapist.
- Child development centres: Speech and language therapists are part of the team.
- Schools: Every mainstream school has a named speech and language therapist who visits. Please talk to your child’s teacher for further information on this.
Drop in to a Talking Walk-in clinic
If your child is 0-4 years old, there are drop-in clinics available providing an opportunity for you to talk to a speech and language therapist about any concerns you may have. No appointment is necessary. Toddler Talk | Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust has the drop in dates in your local area.
The Speech and Language Therapy teams are happy for families to call the offices directly, in advance of being seen, for advice and support, or to discuss a child’s input from the service, please see contact information below:
- West Worcestershire (Wyre Forest, Worcester and Malvern) – Franche Clinic 01562 714700 Email address: whcnhs.
sltwyreforest @nhs.net - East Worcestershire (Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wychavon) – Catshill Clinic 01527 488326 Email address: whcnhs.
sltbromsgrove @nhs.net
For further information and support, you can also contact your Health visitor or speak to your child’s nursery.
