Hello Heroes!

19-Jan-2012

Bexley's flourishing Speech and Language Therapy Service for children was recognised at the House of Commons Hello Heroes event in December to celebrate 2011, the year of Communication. Their strong team approach was hailed as an outstanding model of good practice.

Amy Constant, Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist for South London Healthcare, and Sandie Higgs, Joint Communication Team Coordinator for Bexley Council were truly honoured with the opportunity to attend the celebration, being one of only 14 teams invited, and to meet with Jean Gross, England's Communication Champion for children.

The Year of Communication was recommended by John Bercow's "Review of Services for Children and Young People (0-19) with Speech, Language and Communication Needs" – to highlight its extreme importance from an early age.

Amy says "It's inspiring to be around people with the same passion. We can definitely be proud of the high standard we've achieved for Bexley."

Sandie says "I think they were particularly impressed that we are health and education working together. All families and schools see us as one team."

One parent's comments about the speech therapy and school support she has received for her child, just about sums it up "I can't thank them enough for helping my child through very difficult times and giving her a much more promising start in life."

Ann Lane, Manager of Children's Community Services in Bexley commented "It was truly deserved that their joint work to support children's speech language and communication skills across Bexley was recognised in this way. These are professionals with high levels of expertise and a passion for overcoming organisational obstacles."