Therapy & Support / Advice & next steps
Speech and language support explained
Communication can develop at different rates. If you have concerns about your child's speech or understanding, you do not need to have all the answers right now. Start by observing where they face the most challenge.
Quick answer
Speech and language support can address understanding and using language, speech sounds, social communication, fluency, voice or eating and drinking, depending on the professional’s scope. Support should start with the child’s communication needs and participation goals, not a generic programme.
What this means
A speech and language therapist may assess through discussion, observation and structured activities, with information from family and education. Recommendations can include communication-environment changes, adult interaction strategies, targeted therapy or alternative and augmentative communication. Eating and drinking concerns require appropriately qualified clinical input.
It is helpful to identify the specific nature of the concern. For example, is it about articulation, using sentences, or following instructions? Defining the 'what, where and when' helps schools and therapists determine the best approach.
Before considering private options, explore free pathways. These include the Local Offer for information on local services, and speaking with your school’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), who can access school-based support or NHS speech and language therapy referrals.
Questions to ask
Which area of communication is being assessed? • How will advice work in everyday settings? • What is included in the report and follow-up?
Local Northamptonshire route
NHS and education routes can vary, so confirm current access with the GP, school or provider. North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire publish separate Local Offer information. SEND Lantern’s speech and language page covers the local options in more detail.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
School strategies can begin without private therapy. A registered speech and language therapist may help where communication or swallowing needs require specialist assessment. Private input is optional.
What happens next?
Turn recommendations into specific changes at home or school and review communication access, not just test scores. Ask who to contact if needs change.
Support that may help
School SENCO, SENDIASS, NHS Speech and Language Therapist.
Related guidance
SEND Lantern provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.