A shocking 70 per cent of young offenders have speech, language and communication needs that are often undetected and can contribute to antisocial behaviour, exclusion and, in many cases, a custodial sentence.

 

 

 

Available for all professionals who come into contact with vulnerable people –both witnesses and offenders– it helps develop an understanding of communication difficulties.  The online tool is designed to help spot warning signs, reduce aggressive behaviour and increase productivity by enabling professionals to be more impactful.

 

 

“We know that a staggering 70 per cent of young offenders have problems with talking, understanding and listening but, alarmingly, these difficulties are not always obvious and it can be very easy to miss the warning signs.

 

“This is where the cycle begins. People around these vulnerable individuals mistake their difficulties for behavioral problems - or just not wanting to engage - and begin to give up on them. This can result in frustration and often manifests as challenging behaviour

 

“Working in the justice sector can be challenging and not being equipped to identify and support those with communication needs makes it even more difficult. Using speech, language and communication expertise can help professionals to adopt simple techniques into their daily working life to make their job easier and safer. ”

 

 

For more information visit: www.rcslt.org. To access The Box (launches Wednesday 8 June) please visit:  www.rcslt.org/thebox/open