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Communication Unit for people with learning disabilities

The Communication Unit is located on the ground floor of Centenary House.

Aims and objectives of service and unit

Aims

To offer a quality service to people with learning difficulties who have a communication impairment.

Objectives

1. Assessment of the individual person’s communication needs.
2. Development of the individual’s self-image and confidence.
3. Development of the individual’s communication skills and needs, including a communication development plan/file.
4. Provide an atmosphere that is conducive to the client’s individual needs and development.
5. Liaison with adult training centres, hostels, parents/carers.
6. Holistic approach to communication needs of the individual, their parents, carers and friends.
7. Annual reviews on individual’s progress.
8. Provide a peripatetic service to adult training centres, hostels, parents and carers.
9. Provide staff training in communication skills and awareness.

Areas available

The main subjects and areas available are as follows: British Sign Language Sign-supported English - written English Makaton Visual communication methods and aids Learning through formal, informal, video and experiential methods Art, cookery, social interaction and skills, and one-on-one working Left: A teaching session using video

Above: Learning the signs for food

Training in basic communication skills Training in basic communication skills is available to staff who work with people with learning difficulties. Paid work experience and work project work is available to those who are interested.
	Above: Laying the tables as part of work experience
	Right: On a work project

Deaf and blind people

Volunteers from the deaf community play an essential role at the communication unit. Deafblind and blind/partially sighted people do attend the communication unit. At present this is confined to one group per week. Orientation and independence are the main topics covered.

Left: Volunteers from the deaf community making lunch with a group of deaf users

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For more information or an informal discussion, please contact Julie Newsome (Manager – Communication Unit) on telephone number 0113 202 1452 (direct dial: voice or minicom) or email cu@leedsdeafandblind.org.uk