Our child, who has Down's syndrome and associated hearing loss, has been receiving support from speech and language therapists for a decade. These services have been crucial in his progress in speech, education, and his journey towards an independent life. However, the recent decision by Aberdeenshire Council to withdraw all funding for speech and language therapy in schools, threatens not just our child’s future but also that of thousands of other children within the area.

This decision will not only negatively impact the wellbeing and mental health of those with additional needs it will impact all other children who use, or in the future require support from this service. It will lead to major communication issues undoing decades of progress made by dedicated professionals. Furthermore, it could result in an increase in behavioural issues among students. This will result in a spillover effect where teachers are having to spend more time with children with additional needs, potentially meaning others in the class get less teacher support in their classroom.

Speech is fundamental to education; without it learning becomes significantly more challenging. The council's short-sighted decision may ultimately cost them more due to increased needs for special education resources or behavioural interventions.

We urge Aberdeenshire Council to reconsider their decision on this matter considering its far-reaching implications on children with and without special needs who depend heavily on these services for their development.

Please sign this petition urging Aberdeenshire Council to reverse their decision on defunding school-based speech and language therapy services.