What is Speech and Language Therapy? Speech and Language Therapy helps children develop their ability to understand and use language, communicate socially, and produce clear speech sounds. Therapy is always tailored to your child’s individual needs and delivered in an engaging, fun, and supportive way.

What types of difficulties do you support? I support a wide range of communication needs, including:

• Speech sound difficulties

• Language delay or disorder

• Social communication differences (including Autism-related communication needs)

• AAC (Alternative and Augmentative Communication)

• Support for EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) applications.

Do you support children who are non-speaking or use AAC? Yes, I have a special interest in AAC and social communication. I support children with a range of needs, including those who are non-speaking, using visual supports, communication books, or high-tech devices.

What is AAC and how can it help my child? AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) includes all forms of communication that support or replace spoken language. This can include low-tech options (like picture symbols or communication books) and high-tech options (like voice-generating devices). It’s a powerful way to help children express themselves, develop language, and build social connections.

Does AAC delay speech and language development? No, this is a common myth. Research shows that using AAC does not stop children from developing spoken language. In fact, it can support speech development by giving children a way to communicate while they cannot currently express themselves verbally, reducing frustration and encouraging interaction.

What AAC tools do you have? I have experience with a range of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) systems, including GRID from my NHS practice. Where appropriate, I support children to access AAC approaches in collaboration with families, schools, and relevant professionals.

In my work, I regularly use low-tech AAC strategies such as core boards, communication books, symbols, and aided language stimulation. I also support the use of high-tech AAC systems that may already be in place for a child, and help ensure consistent and confident use across environments.

I will always recommend and support the most appropriate communication approach based on your child’s individual needs, abilities, and goals.

Where do you offer sessions? I offer in-person sessions in Swindon, Wiltshire, West Berkshire, North Hampshire, West Gloucestershire, and parts of North Somerset, up to a 40-mile radius of Swindon*.

*Please note: I am unable to provide services to families living in Oxfordshire or children attending Oxfordshire schools due to my current NHS employment.

Do you offer virtual therapy? Yes, virtual sessions are available for some types of support and for certain review or therapy sessions.

Do you provide school or nursery visits? Yes, I offer visits to schools or nurseries, which can include consultation, observation, and strategy sharing.

Can I book a block of sessions? Yes, I offer a discount on block bookings of 6 therapy sessions. See the Services page for details.

How do I pay for sessions? Payment is required at least 48 hours in advance of the session to secure this. You can pay via bank transfer, a secure online link (Stripe), or by card at the end of the previous session. Block bookings (such as 6 therapy sessions) must be paid in advance, or in instalments where applicable.

The payment and cancellation policy is linked at the bottom of my website.

Do you charge travel fees? Yes, I charge mileage at 45p per mile for travel exceeding a 20-mile round trip, and a £50 travel time fee for journeys over 1 hour return. All travel costs will be discussed with you before booking.

What is your cancellation policy?

• Sessions cancelled more than 48 hours in advance will not be charged.

• Cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice (including illness) will be charged in full.

• Missed sessions without notice are also charged in full.

If you need to reschedule, please get in touch as early as possible.

The full Payment and Cancellation policy is linked at the bottom of my website.

What policies do you have in place? Empowered Speech & Language Therapy has a full set of professional policies to ensure safe, ethical, and high-quality care for children and families. These include privacy, safeguarding, consent, cancellations, and health and safety.

What happens to my child’s information? Your child’s information is stored securely and handled in line with UK GDPR. Information is only shared with your consent, unless there are safeguarding or legal concerns.

The full Privacy Policy is linked at the bottom of my website.

Are you registered and insured? Yes, I am HCPC registered, a member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT), and fully insured when providing independent therapy services.

Do I need to give consent for therapy? Yes, written consent is required before assessment or therapy begins and can be withdrawn at any time.

The full Consent to Therapy Agreement is linked at the bottom of my website.

How do you keep children safe? Safeguarding is a priority. All concerns are taken seriously and managed in line with national safeguarding guidance.

The full Safeguarding Policy is linked at the bottom of my website.

What if I’m not happy with the service? If you have any concerns, I always encourage open communication. I take all feedback seriously and will do my best to resolve any issues quickly and respectfully.

The full Complaints Policy is linked at the bottom of my website.

How do you support inclusion and diversity? I am committed to inclusive, respectful, and neurodiversity-affirming practice for all children and families.

The full Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy is linked at the bottom of my website.

What about cookies on your website? My website uses essential cookies and, where applicable, analytics cookies. You can manage your preferences at any time.

The full Cookie Policy is linked at the bottom of my website.