Speak Out OCTOBER 2021 DIGITAL EDITION

Association NEWS

• Lack of communication access, and limited knowledge and/or skill in communicating with people with complex communication needs is a significant barrier across multiple sectors including health, education and justice. • There is a need to improve workforce capability and oversight for people with disability in several sectors including justice, health, and education. • The removal of communication devices or access to chosen AAC methods is considered to be a restrictive practice. • "Behaviours of concern" may reflect attempts by the person to communicate unmet needs, and may be a form of communication for a person with cognitive disability. • The criminal justice system may not always make necessary adjustments for people who use AAC, and may fail to recognise disability. • First Nations people are grossly over-represented in the criminal justice system, and often enter the criminal justice system with a disability (either diagnosed or un-diagnosed). The Association will continue to advocate for the needs of people with disability and importance of speech pathology services in any future opportunities to respond to or consult with the Disability Royal Commission. We would like to thank all of the members who have contributed to the Association’s submissions, which are publicly available on the SPA website. Erin West Policy Advisor Amy Fitzpatrick Senior Advisor Disability

Commision's reports, and the Royal Commission has recognised that this group may have particular needs that are not always addressed. The advocacy of the Association and others appears to have influenced several points discussed by the Royal Commission, and several of the proposed recommendations in their reports including: • There is currently limited data regarding the nature and extent of violence against, and abuse, neglect and exploitation of, people with communication disability, but the Royal Commission has identified that this group of people with disability is particularly at risk. • People with communication disability may not be able to access certain data collection surveys and therefore may be excluded from vital data that informs needs and services. • Complaints processes need to be communication accessible. Specifically the Royal Commission has suggested a need for health departments at both state and Commonwealth level to review their policies and procedures to ensure they are accessible. • Communication access is crucial to quality healthcare, and this includes allowing additional time, as well as alternative communication methods. • The importance of health professionals communicating directly with people with disability, including learning about the different ways that people with disability communicate. • The need for better education and training around working with people with disability in multiple sectors including education, health, justice, and the NDIS. For example, the Royal Commission is investigating the need for specific communication training for health professionals.

Association advocacy As part of the Disability Royal Commission the Association has produced: 8 submissions across a range of areas 3 staff members asked to present at their hearing The Association has been quoted 9 times in response reports 9 references to SPA submissions in the October Interim Report

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October 2021 | Speak Out