Change Communication works with people experiencing homelessness and the organizations that support them. We are the only charity in the UK that offers speech and language therapy (SLT) to people experiencing homelessness. Our work focuses on those sleeping on the streets or living in hostels and supporting accommodation in London. Change Communication is a registered charity; our Charity registration number is: 1200260. We offer casework services, and training, and operate at strategic levels to extend access to SLT - our work has changed national clinical guidance and supported the NHS to develop similar roles in other parts of the country. We may be small, but we have certainly created waves!
We describe ourselves as a working-class organization because we are led by working class people. We recognize that some people are discriminated against based on their communication and this type of discrimination can be linked to, e.g., ethnicity, sex, disability, and social class along with other personal characteristics, history, or circumstances. This prevents people from accessing services, opportunities and employment in a way privileged others do not experience. It is in the DNA of our organization to highlight and challenge this situation.
We are an industry leader, as we are the only charity in the UK offering speech, language, and communication services to people experiencing homelessness!
Speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN) are not often a priority of homeless services, despite the need for them in this community. People experiencing homelessness are more likely to have traumatic brain injuries, spend time in prison, have problematic drug and/or alcohol use, and have learning disabilities, which all can directly or indirectly lead to SLCN. These untreated SLCNs often lead to troubled relationships, difficulty accessing services, and many other harmful issues that can amplify the effects of homelessness.
By providing SLT services, we empower our clients to use their voices, express their needs, and access vital services.
We are looking for SLT volunteers who are passionate about giving back to their community!