AAC Access All Areas

Ali Battye and Ruth Jones

Ali Battye and Ruth Jones discuss all things neurodiversity affirming and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). We explore specific questions about what AAC is, where to get it, how to use it. Sharing knowledge and experience along the way to support individuals, families and support teams across education, health and social care to integrate inclusive communication practices to enable AAC users. Got a question? Send it in and we will focus an episode on it to answer!

Episodes

  1. 25/12/2025

    Episode 3 - Who Decides on AAC?

    Episode 3; Who Decides? In this episode, Ali Battye and Ruth Jones discuss the complexities surrounding who decides which Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools to use. They explore the hub and spoke model of AAC assessment, the challenges faced by families in accessing AAC, and the role of speech and language therapists. The conversation also addresses common myths about AAC, the importance of parental involvement, and the need for effective communication partners in the AAC journey. Takeaways The hub and spoke model of AAC assessment was established around 2015.Access to high-tech AAC has historically been unequal.Paper-based AAC tools are easier to access but may lack quality.Speech and language therapists often feel unprepared to work with AAC.Parents should not feel they need permission to introduce AAC to their child.There are myths surrounding AAC that can hinder its use.The choice of AAC tool should be individualized based on the user's needs.Communication partners play a vital role in the success of AAC.Training and resources for AAC can vary significantly across regions.Parental involvement is crucial in the decision-making process for AAC.

    32 min

  2. 10/12/2025

    Episode 2 - Types of AAC

    In this episode of AAC Access All Areas, Ruth and Ali discuss the various types of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, their evolution in practice, and the importance of providing diverse language access for children with communication needs. They explore the shift from traditional paper-based systems to more modern, technology-driven solutions like iPads, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches based on each child's unique preferences and needs. The conversation highlights the significance of modeling language, the importance of patience in the AAC learning process, and the various tools available to support effective communication. Ruth's Instagram: ruth_jones_slt Ali's Instagram: ali_battye_speech

    26 min

  3. 26/11/2025

    Episode 1 - What is AAC?

    Ali and Ruth discuss what augmentative and alternative communication is. Diving into what it stands for and what kinds of things we might think about when we hear the term AAC. We explore AAC and how it enriches the lives of those who communicate differently. 💡 Key Insight: Effective communication is about understanding and connecting with one another, no matter the method! Ali's AAC Book: Who's Afraid of AAC?: The UK Guide to Augmentative and Alternative Com Ruth's Instagram: ruth_jones_slt Ali's Instagram: ali_battye_speech

    21 min

  4. SEASON 1 TRAILER

    AAC Access All Areas Trailer

    A brief introduction from Ali and Ruth on who they are and what the podcast hopes to deliver to listeners.

    2 min

Trailer

About

Ali Battye and Ruth Jones discuss all things neurodiversity affirming and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). We explore specific questions about what AAC is, where to get it, how to use it. Sharing knowledge and experience along the way to support individuals, families and support teams across education, health and social care to integrate inclusive communication practices to enable AAC users. Got a question? Send it in and we will focus an episode on it to answer!

Information

  • Creator
    Ali Battye and Ruth Jones
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Ali Battye and Ruth Jones
  • Show Website
    AAC Access All Areas