Openreach and our charity partner, I CAN

Openreach has been working in partnership with I CAN, the children’s communication charity since October 2006.  As we move into our seventh year together, our sponsorship of I CAN via Openreach's 'First Mile' education programme continues to support our shared goal of improving the communication skills of our future generations from pre-school onwards.p>

Speech, language and communication are the foundation skills that underpin everything we do. They are the platform from which a child makes their needs known, expresses their likes and dislikes by sharing experiences, interacts with others and builds future relationships.

However, in some areas of the UK, 50% of children start school with poor language skills. 1 in 10 UK children have more severe difficulties requiring long term support.

The ability to communicate effectively is one of the key elements that fuel a child's growth and development. It affects their social skills, education, and their mental and emotional health.

Yet 1.2million children in the UK are held back by a communication difficulty. That's 10% of all children, regardless of background, making this the single biggest disability issue facing children from birth to adulthood.

I CAN are the experts in children’s speech, language and communication needs.  For over 40 years they have been providing effective, practical solutions which change the lives of children with communication difficulties.  Together, if we can find and help these children and their families, we can unlock their potential.

I CAN supports the needs of their stakeholders through provision of:

• a combination of specialist therapy and education for children with the most severe and complex difficulties
• independent assessment services which help families understand their child’s specific difficulties and the type of support they need to progress at school
• a new telephone enquiry service allowing parents to contact and expert I CAN speech and language therapist through a free, confidential call-back service
• information for parents and families
• training and advice for teachers and other professionals

You can learn more about I CAN by visiting their website at www.ican.org.uk

To access and order the tremendous range of resources (i.e. DVDs, books) currently produced by I CAN, please go to I CAN's website at http://www.ican.org.uk/resources.