Scope’s response to the Bercow Review

Scope’s response to the Bercow Review of services for children and young people with speech, language and communication needs.

Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive of Scope, said:

“Scope strongly welcomes the recommendations of the Bercow Review - many of which Scope actively campaigned for. Currently thousands of children and young people who need equipment to communicate are denied their right to express themselves freely. The review’s recommendations will be instrumental in ensuring that disabled children and their families are no longer denied the equipment and ongoing support they need or sent from pillar to post to get it.

“The review is a great start, but now it is vital that its recommendations are acted upon. Scope looks forward to working with the Government and John Bercow MP to ensure that children and young people who need a communication aid can enjoy the same opportunities to play, learn and participate as their non-disabled peers.

“Finally, although this is a great result for disabled children and young people, the need of adults with speech language and communication needs remain unaddressed. Scope believes the next step is a similar review for adults. We hope disabled adults won’t have long to wait.”