Augmentative and Alternative
Communication (AAC)
What is AAC?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to tools and techniques used to assist individuals with communication disorders in understanding communication and expressing themselves.
AAC encompasses various power-based and paper-based tools such as dedicated speech-generating devices and core boards.
These AAC tools enable individuals with limited speech and/or language abilities to communicate effectively with other people. Augmentative communication strategies serve to supplement existing speech, while alternative communication strategies employ AAC technologies when speech is insufficient or absent.
Image: AAC Consultant Abdi Omar with two pupils he mentors at Charlton Park Academy
Professional Development, Theory & Target Setting
Resources and guidance on the theory behind AAC for children and young people.
In this section you will find Assistive Technologies (AT) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to support schools and provisions in providing more inclusive and total communication environments.
These resources and core word boards can be used as a backup if the AAC device is not available or to introduce and teach language to AAC users.
AAC Role Models
It is important for children and young people who are learning to use AAC to have role models who use AAC.
Beth Moulam
Beth Moulam is a Paralympian, AAC Advocate and lives life to the full celebrating cerebral palsy, speech and hearing impairments and using AAC.
Watch CENMAC student ambassador Khamani interview Beth.
Abdi Omar
Abdi Omar is a motivational speaker located in london. Abdi has cerebral palsy and uses his disability as his biggest motivation to overcome the odds and change everyone’s perceptions about disability.
Watch CENMAC student ambassador Khamani interview Abdi.
Lee Ridley
Lee Ridley is an English stand-up comedian known as the Lost Voice Guy. Lee uses AAC to communicate. He became a household name when he competed in and won the 12th series of Britain’s Got Talent.
Lee has also written a book called ‘I’m Only In It for the Parking’ published in 2021.
Ellise Hollie Hayward
Ellise Hollie Hayward, is a motivational Speaker, Disabilities Correspondent and General Reporter at Jill Dando News, and AAC Ambassador and Inclusion Advocate for The Priory Learning Trust.
Watch CENMAC student ambassador Khamani interview Ellise.
Other companies who can help
The following companies are dedicated to supporting people with language and communication difficulties.
There are a wide range of AAC systems that can support or replace speaking. These can include: Gestures, Sign language, PECS, Communication charts, Communication books, Specialist apps, Communication aids
AAC Modules
CALL Scotland
Commissioned by NHS Education for Scotland (NES) as part of the Scottish Right to Speak initiative, CALL Scotland has produced a series of two online learning modules on Augmentative and Alternative Communication.
About CC
Communication Matters
An overview of AAC from the UK branch of the International Society for AAC. It includes information about AAC and the funding process for speech generating devices in the UK.
Getting Started
Ace Centre
Information and ebooks on how to get started with AAC from the Ace Centre, a national charity providing support for people with complex communications difficulties.
Communication Access UK
Developed by charities and organisations that share a vision to improve the lives of people with communication difficulties. The Communication Access Symbol, a new disability access symbold underpinned by a completely free training package and standards.
Busting AAC Myths
Short articles looking at the most common AAC myths and the science and expertise debunking them.
Introduction to AAC
A quick video introduction to AAC and why it is so important from Speech in a Sec.