Speech therapy service launched

Two speech and language therapists with more than 30 years’ experience have launched a private speech therapy service covering Devon and Cornwall.

Speech Therapy South West is the brainchild of Marianne Bos-Clark from Calstock in south east Cornwall and Emer Scanlon from Tavistock in west Devon.

The independent service has been set up in response to growing demand for prompt, in-depth assessment and treatment of children with speech and communication difficulties, including stammering, and adults with voice problems in Devon and Cornwall.

According to figures, over one million children in the UK have communication difficulties – equivalent to two or three children in every classroom who require specialist help from a speech and language therapist. In some parts of the UK upwards 50% of children are starting school with poor language skills.

Voice problems are also common, particularly with people who use their voice for their work, such as teachers and call centre workers.

Scanlon, who has extensive experience working with children who have speech and language difficulties, said: “With two or even three children in every classroom having some form of speech, language and communication issue, it’s vital to address these needs as early as possible so children have the building blocks for reading, writing, social and emotional skills.”