We are working with Marlow Opportunity Playgroup (MOP), the PACE Centre, and a local independent SLT and OT provider to organise targeted assessments for children who are at the greatest need. 

These children have not seen a specialist for an assessment on their speech, language, and communication needs, creating significant issues which are preventable. Through our investment at MOP, we are giving 12 children and their family the opportunity to spend time with experts in how to communicate with their child. The staff at MOP are also present at these reviews and we are collectively skilling up the workforce in the setting.

Furthermore, we have secured a grant from PACE to provide adaptive assisted communication (AAC) training to staff so they are able to use switches and other advanced communication tools in setting. This is supported by an additional grant that we provided MOP to develop an AAC Library where tools can be loaned and trialled out by families, before being ordered by the NHS.

• Working with Makaton Charity to develop more culturally diverse signs

• Discussions with Ronald McDonald Charity Homes to improve inclusion for families from faith communities in their homes

• Engaging with Newlife to improve their service provision diversity

• Part of the Disabled Children's Partnership research advisory group on children in ethnic minorities  

• Developing educational materials and messaging on faith perspectives on disability, to help places of worship improve access and acceptance of disabled children and their families

• Exploring respite and community outreach days in places of worship and community spaces to improve visibility and inclusion of children with disabilities and their families

We are developing a support box on hospital wards that is given to families who have an early years child with additional needs - a helping hand at their side during tough hospital admissions where conventional toys are not accessible. 

Many family members and friends of children with additional needs dont know how to communicate with them and so, they don't. This leads to very avoidable isolation both for the children but also their parents and carers. YJF is looking to solve this problem by upskilling families and communities to unlock the magic of connection with the children around them. 

COMING SOON IN SUMMER/AUTUMN 2023

We are planning a mental health workshop as a space for carers to learn how to look after their wellbeing.