1. ACE Centre services Anna Reeves & Steve Carroll

2. Who we are and what we do... We support children and adults with complex disabilities to communicate using technology Our AAC and Assistive Technology services are delivered by teachers, occupational therapists, speech & language therapists and assistive technologists across the country We provide... ‒ Assessments and Training ‒ Advice and Information ‒ Consultancy ‒ Project Management ‒ Loan Bank of Equipment ‒ Bespoke services for schools and colleges

3. Where we’re based... Hollinwood Business Centre, Albert St, Hollinwood, Oldham OL8 3QL Jericho Farm Barns, Yarnton Road, Cassington, Oxfordshire OX29 4SZ tel: 0161 358 0151 fax: 0161 358 0152 e-mail: enquiries@acecentre.org.uk website: www.acecentre.org.ukenquiries@acecentre.org.ukwww.acecentre.org.uk

4. Assessment services We provide comprehensive multi-disciplinary assessments for children and adults across England Typically, this service comprises ‒ Collation of relevant information from the individual, their family and carers and professionals who support them ‒ Day(s) trial of resources and strategies to support the development of expressive, receptive and written communication and access to technology ‒ Short term trial of equipment ‒ And/or review if appropriate ‒ Written report detailing the process and recommendations Claire’s story

5. Training services Accredited training courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level include: ‒ Assistive Technology Unit ‒ AAC Unit ‒ Access Unit Bespoke training: ‒ Personalised training to meet the needs of the individual or staff team ‒ Joint assessments ‒ ‘You Matter ‘ training resources One day courses http://acecentre.org.uk/training

6. Advice & Information services Information Days Telephone and e-mail support www.acecentre.org.uk www.speechbubble.org.uk

7. Loan Bank services Short term loan of wide range of AAC and assistive technology equipment, including: ‒ Communication aids ‒ Access devices, e.g. mouse alternatives, keyboard alternatives, monitors ‒ Laptops with supportive software ‒ iPads with apps ‒ Mounting systems ‒ literature

8. Consultancy and Project Management DfE Prospectus Grant Previous projects available on our website AAC Coordinator role

9. Service Level Agreements ACE Centre services can be purchased on an annual basis to provide a ‘pick and mix’ package tailored to the needs of the organisation We currently have Service Level Agreements with a number of local authorities and schools / colleges Additional services include: ‒ Access to the loan bank all year ‒ Free Network day places ‒ Tailored packages, such as consultation days

10. Changes to the way health services are being delivered...including AAC For many years, accessing specialised services and funding for communication equipment for children and adults has been challenging. However, technology to support communication and learning continues to evolve... As from next April 2014, referrals for children and adults with complex needs who may benefit from AAC will be via specialised AAC services commissioned by NHS England Provision of complex assessments, communication equipment and initial training will be available via these services AAC equipment will be provided on a long term loan basis Local AAC services will need to be maintained where they exist and established where they do not