New communication guide launched as experts gather for the PMLD Network conference 2010: Raising our sights
December 2010
Professor Jim Mansell and Professor Juliet Goldbart were two of the experts who attended the PMLD Network conference on 16 December in Nottingham. Learning disability charity Mencap chairs the PMLD Network and organised the conference to showcase the work that has been done to improve things for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) since the launch of Valuing People Now in 2009. The event included an interactive session for people with PMLD and their families and carers.
Professor Mansell was the keynote speaker at the event talking about the ‘Raising our sights’ report commissioned by the Department of Health as part of the Valuing People Now delivery plan and published earlier this year. Professor Goldbart launched the new guide called ‘Communication and people with the most complex needs: What works and why this is essential’.
The new guide is for commissioners, service providers, families, practitioners and anyone who works with people with complex needs. It gives examples of effective communication methods such as Intensive Interaction and more creative arts-based approaches such as the use of music. The guide was commissioned by Mencap in partnership with the Department of Health as part of the work set out in the Valuing People Now delivery plan.
Beverley Dawkins OBE, chair of the PMLD Network and national officer for PMLD at Mencap, said:
“The Raising our sights report was a positive first step towards improvements for people with PMLD, but it is crucial that all local authorities are now working towards ensuring the recommendations are delivered. The new guide will be a valuable tool for families and professionals. Communication is a human right that many of us take for granted. It allows people to, interact with others, express their feelings and be involved in the decisions that affect their everyday lives.”
