Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide a report following an Initial Assessment?
We offer two different initial assessment packages to better meet your needs and make our service accessible. Initial assessments can either come with:
A summary letter, which outlines the assessments completed, brief summary of results, diagnosis provided (if appropriate) and recommendations for future support. This is typically 1-2 pages.
A detailed assessment report which provides thorough information on the informal and/or standardised assessment(s) completed with examples of the child’s performance in each area, diagnosis provided (if appropriate), proposed treatment goals (if appropriate) and recommendations for future support. This is a longer document typically 4+ pages.
We understand that some children may require a more complex assessment and therefore a more detailed report. For example, if a child required multiple standardised assessments to be administered to gather information about their communication and feeding skills. In these cases, we will discuss this with your prior to completing the assessment and writing a report to confirm any additional charges that may be required. Information about the fees for reports can be provided on request.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an Initial Assessment?
When you book in for an Initial Assessment, you will be sent several electronic forms to complete. Core Speech uses WriteUpp as our clinical records management software; therefore, all our electronic forms are sent through WriteUpp. You will need to complete the following forms in advance:
Intake Form
Terms & Conditions
It is also recommended that you:
Provide copies of any letters or reports from other therapists currently supporting your child via email to Core Speech.
Make a list of questions that you have to ask the therapist.
Take videos of your child playing and communicating if there is a chance that they may be quiet and reserved on the day of the assessment.
We know that meeting a new Speech and Language Therapist can be difficult for some children. We have produced a Social Story that can be read to children in advance of their appointment to help them understand what is happening. We have also provided photographs of Emma that can be added to visual schedules if these are currently used by your child.
Do you provide progress reports throughout the therapy process?
A child’s therapy goals and progress are regularly discussed with parents to ensure that the child’s needs are best being met. Progress reports can be provided on request for an additional charge. These can be useful to share with school or other professionals supporting the child following completion of a block of therapy sessions (e.g., 6-10 sessions).
How long are goals set for?
At Core Speech we provide short-term goals for children accessing Speech and Language Therapy with us. Short-term goals are written to cover a block of therapy sessions (usually 4-12 weeks).
How many therapy sessions will my child need?
Every child is their own unique person and subsequently requires individualised therapy recommendations. Following the initial assessment, you will be informed if direct therapy is recommended to support any identified needs and difficulties. Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict how many sessions a child will require in order to meet their long-term goals. We recommend accessing a block of therapy sessions, and collaboratively with your therapist continuously monitoring your child’s progress to determine the most appropriate next steps.
We appreciate that therapy can be a big investment for families and strive on working flexibly to support you in accessing our services helping your child to Learn, Grow and Thrive.
How much does Speech and Language Therapy cost?
Please contact us for further information about our fees.
Fees for bespoke services (e.g., school training sessions) can be provided on request. Please discuss any requirements you may have with us and we will be happy to provide you with a quote.
My child has a NHS Speech and Language Therapist (SALT). Can they still receive services from the NHS if we access support through Core Speech?
Yes. Core Speech will work collaboratively with your child’s NHS SALT to ensure their needs are best met. Core Speech advocates for all children who require support with their communication and feeding to receive NHS SALT services; however, we acknowledge that some local areas have long waiting lists. Core Speech can support your family whilst you wait to access NHS SALT services or provide additional support in between your NHS therapy sessions as a ‘boost’.
Will Core Speech attend meetings with my child’s school teacher?
Yes. Core Speech can liaise with your child’s school teacher through email or phone calls, as well as attend meetings in person or virtually (e.g., via zoom).
Fees for attending meetings, such as EHCP annual reviews and school transitions can be provided on request.
What ages do you work with?
Core Speech works with infants and children. Whilst we don’t have any specific age limits, we advise you to contact us to discuss your child’s specific needs to see if we can help. If Core Speech are unable to support you, we will always endeavour to signpost you to alternative services.