Helen
Supporting Helen to learn new
communication skills
With support from her speech pathologist, behaviour support practitioner and staff in her Northcott home in Wagga Wagga, Helen has found a new way to express herself and have greater choice and control in her life.
Helen, who is non-verbal with limited communication, moved into Northcott’s home in Lake Albert (Wagga Wagga) several years ago. Since relocating, her multidisciplinary team has been doing everything to make sure Helen is happy and comfortable, with opportunities to make her own choices.
“Helen may be non-verbal but she has always been able to communicate her wants and needs. From her gestures we know Helen loves coffee, Elvis, socialising with others and spending time in the community, in particular op shopping for new outfits,” says Jack Barwick, Northcott Service Coordinator in Helen’s house.
Helen’s progress
Taking a collaborative approach to improving her communication, Helen’s support staff, behaviour support practitioner and speech therapist decided to work together to support Helen to learn a new skill she may not have used for a long time, if ever – Key Word Sign.
As part of a house-wide communication strategy, the team created a communication wall featuring Key Word Signs. Helen was the housemate who adapted to the Key Word Signs the most, responding positively to signs and Objects of Reference.
“Helen will get quite frustrated when she wants to go out. Previously we didn’t have a way to explain to Helen ‘yes’ or ‘no’ or ‘later’. Now we can, and we see Helen is a lot less frustrated when waiting to go out.
“We’ve also noticed that showing Helen the coffee cup object always elicits a positive response, usually tears of joy and a dance!” Jack says.
Helen’s Northcott Speech Pathologist, Claudia Westcott played a huge part in Helen’s progress and has been delighted with the results.
Claudia, Helen’s Speech Pathologist visit Helen at home for sessions.
“It’s been great to see Helen use a combination of Key Word Sign and Objects of Reference to communicate her needs and wants,” she says.
“I first started working with Helen in April 2021. The therapy has predominately included staff training on what is communication, general communication strategies and Key Word Signs and Objects of Reference,” Claudia says.
Next steps
With some simple signs now part of Helen’s communication, Helen’s team are now supporting her to increase her Key Word Sign vocabulary.
“I’ve been continuing to work on implementing Key Word Sign with Helen, specifically for when she is at home and also at her day program,” says Claudia. Jack and his team are also keen to see Helen’s skills develop further.
“The sign for ‘coffee’ is a big one we want Helen to learn as she is an avid fan of coffee,” he says.
Helen’s team
Jack says the dedicated team at Helen’s home are a big reason her communication skills are developing.
“I want to give a shout out to my team. They are a real example of how easy it is to provide people centred support. They have persevered through some challenging times and still provide a high level of support and care. I’m really proud of them.
“Helen’s achievement is also a testament to the good work we are all capable of with the support of Northcott and our community. It’s not just empowering for the customer but also for the staff.”
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