This week, we Share Chris’s interview with Saffron Murphy-Mann, Helen Hewson, and Andrea Sharples! Saffron Murphy-Mann is a specialist AAC teacher with a background in music, working in both mainstream and specialist settings to support young AAC users in accessing education and demonstrating their knowledge. Helen Hewson is an AAC user born with cerebral palsy, who has been using various forms of AAC since childhood and is now a trustee of Communication Matters, advocating for AAC awareness and supporting others on their communication journeys. Andrea Sharples is a speech and language therapist and the director of AT Therapy, an independent practice that provides AAC mentoring and support, employing AAC users with lived experience to inspire and guide others. All three are actively involved in Communication Matters, contributing to the organization’s mission of empowering AAC users and fostering a supportive community through conferences and advocacy!

Before the interview, Chris and Rachel discuss the balance between accessibility and privacy, particularly in the context of AAC devices and personal information. They explore concerns about exposing personal identifying information on devices and luggage tags, while also considering how to maintain security and accessibility for users with fine motor challenges, such as using strong passwords with tools like sticky keys.

Key Ideas This Week:

🔑 Empowering Individuals With AAC: Helen Hewson shared her personal journey with cerebral palsy and how AAC technology transformed her life, enabling her to communicate effectively and gain independence. Her story underscores the critical role AAC plays in breaking down barriers for individuals with communication disabilities, allowing them to express themselves, participate in education, and engage socially.

🔑 The Community and Inclusivity of the Communication Matters Conference: The CM conference is not just a professional gathering but a vibrant, inclusive community event that brings together AAC users, families, professionals, and manufacturers. The conference features a mix of educational sessions, social events (like the open mic night and fancy dress dinner), and opportunities for networking and collaboration.

🔑 The Growth of Communication Matters: The episode highlighted the growing popularity of the CM conference, which was sold out in 2024, and the plans to expand its reach in 2025, including attracting more international delegates and potentially hosting the largest AAC flash mob as a world record attempt!

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