Norwood has launched an exciting new initiative which is set to ensure that the communication needs of the adults with learning disabilities who use its services are met through the use of a common language. The U-Me project (Understanding Me) was officially unveiled yesterday during a celebration event at Ravenswood, which is the Charity’s residential community in Berkshire.
Research conducted within Ravenswood found that residents were being encouraged to communicate in different ways, and a common language was missing. Now, using the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and Makaton sign-language, residents will be supported to communicate in the same way with the help of designated Communication Champions. Forty-five staff will be trained in the new system to ensure that at least one Communication Champion will be on shift in each Ravenswood home at any one time.
Phil Hooper, Communications Project Co-ordinator for Norwood, said: “In line with Norwood’s new three year strategy, the main aim of the project is to simply change the lives of every resident by respecting each person’s right to communicate and make choices in the most effective way possible.”
The project, which has been developed over a 15 month period, has already been successfully piloted at Ravenswood. Following the trial, support workers who had been assessing the progress of participants said that people were more confident when communicating. However, U-Me is not only available for Ravenswood residents but will eventually be rolled out across the whole organisation. All Norwood staff will be encouraged to attend a course providing them with the skills they will need to start using the language.
