Ryan has learning disability which has been present since birth.  Ryan also has a severe communication impairment which affects all aspects of his daily life. His learning disability has affected his ability to speak, to understand language, to understand complex information, to learn new skills and to cope independently. 

“Having a severe communication impairment affects all aspects of Ryan’s everyday life. It can lead to frustration and isolation as the person may struggle to get their message across and may find it upsetting if people cannot understand them, or do not take the time to try and interpret their message. Through use of Makaton sign Language and his high tech Lightwriter communication aid, Ryan is able to successfully engage with others, convey his message, indicate his needs and make choices. Participation in a social communication skills group has also served to increase Ryan’s confidence as a conversational partner”.

                            Ryan’s speech and language therapist