1Voice: Connecting and Empowering Families Through Alternative Communication Support
By Ellise Hollie-Hayward, Disabilities Correspondent
1Voice is a small UK charity dedicated to bringing social connection and positive role models to AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) users, their families, and those who support them.
While most people use their voices to communicate, those who cannot or choose not to use their voices rely on AAC, which includes a wide range of communication methods.
These can range from high-tech solutions like eye gaze, touch screens, or switch-operated devices to low-tech methods like symbol books, partner-assisted scanning, and sign languages such as BSL or Makaton.
1Voice is a passionate and committed group, operating with just one part-time employee, their amazing administrator Jo.
Despite its size, the charity thrives thanks to the energy and dedication of AAC users, families, and professionals—primarily speech and language therapists—who volunteer their time. This community-driven effort allows 1Voice to organize fantastic events each year.
Founded in December 2000, 1Voice held its first family weekend in Blackpool. Co-founders Katie Clake, a parent of an AAC user, and Tamsin Crothers, a speech and language therapist, were inspired by their experience at Dr. Joan Bruno’s Camp Chatterbox in the mid-nineties.
Tamsin was impressed by how families supported and motivated each other, how much they taught her about AAC, and the crucial role role models played.
This experience led her to run AAC summer groups with her colleague Lynn John and present at Communication Matters. Katie, in the audience at one of these events, joined Tamsin to launch 1Voice, which has grown steadily ever since.
1Voice’s primary focus is organizing social events for AAC users.
The charity is well-known for its residential weekends, each with a theme that brings together AAC users at different stages of their communication journey. These events provide opportunities to learn from one another, share experiences, and most importantly, have fun. Parents also connect with one another to exchange advice and insights.
In addition to the residential weekends, 1Voice hosts a variety of shorter, more informal regional events in locations like cafes, boat trips, play centers, and parks. These gatherings allow people to meet more locally, fostering a sense of community.
During the pandemic, 1Voice introduced online events to maintain connections, and they continue to offer virtual activities, including popular parent chat groups, which provide family members a chance to discuss issues and share ideas.
The charity also holds online socials at key times, such as Christmas, where participants can chat, play games, and enjoy festive fun. Through their social media pages, including specific Facebook groups for different regions, 1Voice ensures members stay connected between events, helping them arrange meet-ups or seek advice.
Behind the scenes, 1Voice's Trustees work on raising awareness and collaborating with other organizations supporting AAC users.
They respond to policy proposals, engage with All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) to advocate for AAC, and stay in touch with Communication Matters to highlight relevant projects and opportunities.
1Voice’s vision is a world where every child and adult, regardless of how they communicate, is heard.
They hope to expand their branches into strong, supportive networks of AAC users, families, professionals, organizations, and volunteers, so AAC users can meet more frequently and with less travel.
For those starting their communication journey, 1Voice dreams of providing regular opportunities to socialize, meet role models, and build confidence. For more experienced communicators, they aim to offer spaces to connect and strengthen relationships. They also strive to support older AAC users by giving them opportunities to inspire the next generation and raise public awareness of AAC.
1Voice is looking to connect with volunteers and professionals in the South West to help make their vision a reality. There are many ways to get involved, from supporting AAC users at events to fundraising through initiatives like Give as You Live, or even becoming a trustee.
Connecting, communicating, and collaborating are powerful tools for change. By working together and amplifying the voices of AAC users, 1Voice can create lasting impact. Join their community, united by AAC!
