Communication - Thoughts from an AAC user X Force Chef training Giving Voice Aotearoa Week of Action - New Zealand ...
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SPRING 2018
ISSUE 32
communication
Thoughts from an AAC user
X Force • Chef training • Giving Voice Aotearoa Week of Action
Contents From the editor
Karen Watson editor@speechtherapy.org.nz
Welcome to our new look During our week of action, I followed the In this issue of Communication Matters
1 2 3 4 6 8 Communication Matters
NZSTA’s campaign hashtags (accessible
via searchable links on social media,
we hear Thane Pullan’s voice. Thane
uses AAC (augmentative and alternative
From the President’s Bupa IDDSI Communicating X Force: A Way to Play: magazine. It’s exciting for those who don’t have social media communication) for everyday
accounts), #GivingVoiceAotearoa and communication, speeches and has even
editor report chef training without communication A case study to bring you a refreshed #SLTAwareness, on Twitter and Facebook. used it to write a book. He presents the
& our role in “talking” solution for format following a month Two main themes emerged. The first personal side to using AAC. He shares
food service young adults
of learning, advocacy and theme was education: raising awareness how this way of communicating shapes
of communication and swallowing his interactions with others and reminds
action in the world of speech- disorders. The posts covered ways to us that high-tech AAC use is screen time,
language therapy. Thank you support language development in infants, something users and their families should
10 12 13 16 21 Back
cover to everyone who provided the need to consider and meet the
communication needs of young people
consider and manage. We also hear
about the development of the X Force –
Giving Voice Book review: Area updates NZSTA Board Contact details NZSTA photos of their Giving Voice involved with the justice system, the comic superheroes who save AAC users
Aotearoa How to Member Professional Aotearoa activities and to prevalence of acquired communication from the frustrations of communication
and swallowing disorders, and more. partners unfamiliar with using alternative
Awareness Communicate updates Development the University of Canterbury forms of communication.
Week with Someone Symposium student representatives for The second theme was about human
Who Has photos connection. Connection with each This edition’s IDDSI update summarises a
Dementia
their photos of the NZSTA other and to our identities. There were chef training roadshow at Bupa care homes,
Professional Development some lovely quotes from people with with further resources including videos
communication difficulties gathered available on the NZSTA website. We also
Symposium. by our new communications portfolio have a book recommendation for your
holder Amy Oughton. One example is summer reading list, How to Communicate
from Tracy who spoke of learning to “be with Someone Who Has Dementia, for
patient, put in the effort to understand both professional and personal learning.
and invest in communication”. Whether
We have updates from our new
it’s sharing a conversation or a cuppa,
president, Annette Rotherham, and
our work helps people to participate.
Cover: Beautiful Dunedin, where this year’s NZSTA Professional Development Symposium was held. Photo credit: DunedinNZ the board members, area and student
This – the human connection – is why
representatives let us know what is
Submission deadline for next edition of Communication Matters: 6 December 2018. Send to editor@speechtherapy.org.nz we do what we do.
happening around the country.
ISSN 2324-2302 (Print) Noho ora mai,
ISSN 2324-2310 (Online) Stay well,
The NZSTA reserves the right to refuse for inclusion in Communication Matters, any articles, features or advertisements which are contrary to the NZSTA Code of Ethics. Karen
Unless formally stated to the contrary, acceptance and publication of material and advertising does not imply endorsement of views, positions, programmes or products by NZSTA.
ii • may
Articles Communication
be edited. Matters Communication Matters • 1
Bupa IDDSI chef training & our role in
President’s report food service
Annette Rotherham president@speechtherapy.org.nz
Anna Miles, NZSTA Expert Adviser – Dysphagia, newzealand@iddsi.org
Tēnā koutou katoa As I reflect on the past four years on We are now a self-regulating, registered leading another initiative from NZSTA In August, the NZSTA created a full-day workshop for the head chefs
the Executive Council, now called profession thanks to the hard work with the formation of a consumer focus at Bupa, supported by their food provider, Bidfood. Bupa have 50 care
Nō Ōtautahi ahau
the NZSTA Board, many things have of Anna Miles and Clare McCann. group. Watch this space!
Ko Rotorua tōku kainga inaianei been learnt and have shaped me We have engaged our communities to homes across the country and arranged a chef training roadshow focusing
The opportunity to provide leadership
Ko James tōku whanau professionally and personally. I thrive on spread the word about communication on IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative).
to the NZSTA in the role of president,
Ko Gary tōku matua the shared energy and goals we have access and this year we presented
is an opportunity to serve to our
as a team and as a profession. I have 10 organisations throughout Aotearoa Traditionally, speech-language Some of the activities undertaken in
Ko Lois tōku whaea profession. It takes commitment to
had the opportunity to develop creative with Communication Access Awards. therapists have focused on educating groups at the Bupa workshop:
see projects through and to pull
Ko Annette Rotherham tōku ingoa ideas into realities. I feel proud to have healthcare assistants and nursing staff
We have just gathered for a successful teams together for our common
Nō reira tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, delivered some memorable awareness – the feeders. Dietitians have always
NZSTA Professional Development purpose. NZSTA have been successful 1 What level am I?
campaigns: “Making connections: had a role in food service and are
tēnā koutou katoa whakawhanaungatanga” in 2014,
Symposium in Dunedin. Thanks to in forming partnerships and closer
Look at the list of meals and
Claire Winward for organising and connections with our allied professional regularly employed to audit seasonal
“Access for All: he waka eke noa” in 2015 menus for their nutritional content desserts. Discuss which level
planning the entire event, and to Bev groups and with our international
and to have nurtured the Giving Voice against international standards. With the each one fits into.
Jarvis for ensuring it all went smoothly. associations thanks to the supportive
Aotearoa Campaign to its current position. adoption of these new standards in
The keynote speakers, Jane Carroll and collaborative leadership of 2 Adjust that level
I thank you all for your participation, and Sue MacDonnell, provided highly Philippa Friary. New Zealand, the IDDSI working group
and lead speech-language therapists Choose a meal and drink on list
passion and enthusiasm demonstrated engaging and insightful presentations,
I know that the current team will in the health field are spending more and consider how you could
this year for our Giving Voice Aotearoa and we were all left with food for
continue this mahi and look to our time in kitchens assessing meals, and adjust the level up or down?
Week of Action and Awareness thought. We had a strong turnout and
strategic vision of “a thriving profession engaging and training chefs.
with the theme of Speech-language much networking and connecting with 3 The vegetable challenge
working in partnership to enhance
therapy: making a critical difference. old friends was had. The full workshop content and
lives”. Wherever you work out there in Pick one vegetable. Use the
Our daily themes on social media really explanations for activities are available
In our Giving Voice Aotearoa session, the world of speech-language therapy microwave to create a regular
encompassed the breadth of speech- to members as movie files. Please see
Geneva Hakaraia-Tino gave a professional – as students, clinicians, teachers, vegetable side dish, soft &
language therapy practice and, wow, the position paper on the NZSTA
and heart-warming presentation about researchers – take time to reflect on bite-sized vegetable side and
what a difference we can make! website if you are interested in using
the development of a Kiwi voice and our “why?” minced & moist vegetable side.
As a team, the NZSTA Board have the journey to having her own identity in them in your area. • Avoid defaulting to puree!
There are over 400,000 New Zealanders
achieved some lofty goals in 2018. AAC with a te reo voice. Geneva will be Next, use the testing methods
who appreciate what you do every day. If you have developed other IDDSI to test your vegetable sides and
Keep making a critical difference. resources that you are willing to share, adapt them until they meet the
The opportunity to provide leadership to Ngā mihi nui, please send them to me. IDDSI requirements.
Annette
the NZSTA in the role of president, is an
– Annette opportunity to serve to our profession.”
2 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 3
Communicating without “talking”: Speech-language therapists can help
parents to understand the importance
An AAC user shares his experience – Thane of communication.”
Thane Pullan, adapted from his speech to speech-language therapy students at the University of Canterbury
If people don’t communicate Some parents place more importance but this isn’t always best, especially when In conversations with multiple speakers, these methods are typically slower than restaurants. It can be good to have a
on the mobility aspect of disability by dealing with carers and employees. it can be difficult to find a time to jump. regular typing. person with you who can read what’s on
with others frequently it is not participating in programmes to improve However, this can also be an advantage Especially if it takes you a few seconds your screen in case problems occur.
Eye tracking occurs when a camera is used
good for their mental health. walking, for example. I think that dealing as I was briefly a comedian and bluntness to activate the speaking functions. I have
to track someone’s eyes to determine You also need to be mindful of issues
with communication issues should also makes good comedy. accepted that sometimes I need to blurt
It is essential that they can do have priority and speech-language out what I have to say. Hopefully, people
where they are looking. This is typically relating to addiction and overuse. I work
this easily. Speech-language Slower communication can sometimes quicker than scanning but some devices on the computer about 15 hours a day
therapists can help parents to understand understand why I do that.
feel like a burden, so I don’t routinely only function well in certain lighting with small breaks for meals, but this is
therapists should ensure that the importance of communication.
chat online. Communicating without high-tech conditions. Since this can be slower my choice. I try not to communicate
people feel as comfortable Communication access can lead to
Sometimes slower communication can be assistive devices than regular typing, chatting to another electronically after 10pm to help avoid
employment opportunities. For example, person can be time-consuming and other insomnia.
with communicating Lost Voice Guy is a comedian who delivers
a burden to the other person. If someone Starting from a young age, children can
people can be impatient.
you know is acting like your communication learn to point to pictures on a tray. For
as possible. jokes using a communication device. The Which communication method
method is troublesome perhaps you can example, they could have a symbol for When I have a meeting, I sometimes works best?
same assistive technology can be used to
find another way to communicate with toilet, yes and no. If they are not in a type everything that I intend to say
deliver speeches, or even write books. I can tell you that having several
them (for example, via email). wheelchair, the symbols could be in a beforehand, especially if I’m the
communication methods works better
I know a child who refused to use small book or they could press buttons chairperson. There have been times
Usually devices or people can predict than having one. Devices can fail, so
communication aids. Perhaps letting on a device to communicate. If they when I have typed up a letter to my
what the person is spelling, so completing having a technology-based method and
people know of famous people with later learn to spell, the symbols can turn doctor to give him – this is useful if you
the entire word is not necessary. This can a method that doesn’t use technology is
disabilities, such as Stephen Hawking into letters, so they can communicate need privacy.
be useful, but some people constantly important. People who don’t know the
or Lost Voice Guy, could be a way of effectively.
predict the wrong word, and this slows If you want to communicate with a person with a communication impairment
encouraging reluctant communicators.
the conversation down. When some people see letters on a specific business, you can probably well might cope better when technology
Communication possibly affects tray, they assume that they must point email them or text them. It can help to let is utilised.
Since communication is slow, sometimes
empathy levels. People are more to the letters themselves. This is fine if them know you cannot talk and how you
the conversation shifts to a new topic I primarily communicate over email or text
likely to understand what others are you cannot hear but it can be annoying communicate. If you operate a business
before the person finishes typing what by using eye tracking with nine predicted
going through if they have face-to-face otherwise. Having a note saying that and want more information on being
Thane Pullan, author and AAC user they were going to say. Most of the time, words to choose from. Most of my family
conversations. Sometimes I am less others don’t need to spell is a good idea. accessible, check out the People with
people will talk while someone is typing can read my communication tray which
empathetic because I don’t communicate Disabilities website.
but I find this less stressful than having Using technology to communicate mostly contains letters and numbers.
with people often enough.
people wait silently. However, it can be It is worthwhile having a natural sounding
Some people can also use a computer The key for effective communication
I am blunter than regular people because annoying when you are typing a good voice and quality speakers to minimise
or specific device to communicate. is finding the systems that work for
it takes me so long to communicate. point and someone else says it right problems hearing your device. This is
If they cannot type they can use an eye the individual. •
I prefer to get my thoughts out quickly, before you have finished! important when you go to places like
tracking or a scanning system, though
4 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 5
X Force: A communication solution
for young adults
Fern Maxwell
Opposite page
and left:
The group worked
At the end of 2017, we Many of these students used some With the Giving Voice Aotearoa The group identified their main problems:
together to make
verbal communication, however they campaign in the back of our minds, • Being interrupted part-way through
identified a gap in support were mostly only intelligible to familiar we facilitated a conversation around a storyboard and
a message
for young Augmentative and communication partners or were relying “what does communication mean to
• Communication partners attempting
mind map their
on people who knew them well to you?” It was more successful than we ideas for their own
Alternative Communication anticipate their needs. As a result, we could have hoped. The group of 10
to guess the message before it has comic strip.
(AAC) users. We had a number been completed Bottom:
invited a number of young people to young people wanted to share what
• Communication partners X Force to the rescue!
of teenagers and young adults attend a group at TalkLink Trust as a communication meant to them, but they
underestimating their abilities The finished product.
pilot project. absolutely did not want to be in front of
who were not using, or were the camera! So, the group researched • Not being given sufficient time
We have been able to run groups
reluctant to use, their AAC each term this year with great success.
other awareness campaigns (mostly led to complete their message in
by speech-language therapists) and a conversation.
systems because they felt they A primary aim of the group was to
came across The Language Stealers video
were the only person who facilitate genuine and meaningful The group wanted the comic book
made by a group of AAC users. Then our
interactions between young people characters, the X Force, to save their
needed to use them. aged 14 to 24. The young people were
group’s project was decided –
peers from these day-to-day problems.
a comic strip.
fully engaged and took ownership They scripted, narrated and illustrated a
of the group, giving it an awesome story book. The group are so happy with
name: X Force! They identified topics the final product and hope that it helps
they wanted to cover such as gaming, bring awareness of their voices. •
blogging, sharing their experiences and
even investigating elements of social
media such as Snapchat.
6 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 7
Way to Play: A case study Giving the family and the centre the power to do this … has meant the
progress has been incredible – it’s blown me away because I haven’t seen
Julia Woodward, Practice & Implementation Advisor, Ministry of Education
– Katryna that amount of rapid progress [before].”
Last issue we featured What were things like before Mei attended a half-day Way to Play Mealtimes are easier as he will sit and try to implement the strategies, and for Mei Using the RBI at the beginning of service
Way to Play? session and then talked through the different foods. He now interacts with the to expand the strategies outside of the got everyone onboard and motivated.
an article on Way to Play strategies with Katryna at home. Initially, other children at daycare and plays with home, for example, going to the park. By focusing on social interaction as a
Joe aged almost 3, attends daycare
strategies implemented by four days a week. His mother Mei Mei found it difficult and spent a lot of his siblings. foundation, goals in other areas have
time “being the entertainer”, but Katryna What contributed to success? been achieved without doing specific
the Ministry of Education reported that Joe was a happy child and
talked through “serve and return”
Priya and Joe have developed a “really
“Going in with the confidence from intervention for them.
emotionally regulated. His focus was on beautiful” relationship. They were
and Autism NZ. This issue objects rather than people and he was interaction and following a little bit of knowing that if we find the right pattern
recently chasing each other on bikes Final thoughts from Mei
we learn more through an not yet using words. Mei was worried video feedback, Mei tried again. Mei
using pattern, memory and variation
it will work – sharing that with the family
that she was not doing enough. She was learnt to build a pattern with variations was really helpful – give this a go – even if “Before Way to Play, I felt lost and had no
impact case study. and a memory catchphrase that helped
as the basis for their interaction. The
it doesn’t work the first time, keep going!” knowledge or confidence to help Joe
also concerned about the lack of social teachers also use the strategies to make
interaction and connection with her redirect Joe back to the pattern. progress. I needed guidance [but] was
routines easier. For example, they now Priya says “the videos are a fantastic
child. Mealtimes were a “nightmare”. initially sceptical about what Way to Play
At daycare, Katryna introduced Way to use a memory catchphrase to get Joe tool to have as it helps you to see the
could offer me, but … I quickly began to
Priya, head teacher at Joe’s daycare, Play through a one-hour session with to the table for mealtimes, previously interaction in a different way, pick up
realise how much I could learn. I have a
and her team wanted to know how Priya using videos and written resources. a very stressful time of day. Joe is more where you could improve … and gives
better understanding of Joe now, I learnt
to increase social interaction for Joe. Priya then implemented the strategies aware of other children, and the teachers you extra confidence”.
what autism really felt like for him, why
They were concerned that he had little with Joe and this was followed by a have included other children in games
children with autism do what they do,
interest in people. It was challenging for video-coaching session. They focused on using these strategies. For example, the
who are the best people to help him,
Priya and her team to get Joe to follow establishing patterns that were engaging children have been jumping off a beam ? how to tackle tricky situations and when
centre routines. before introducing variation. Another holding hands.
to celebrate success.
coaching session two weeks later used Way to Play terms:
Prior to Way to Play, Katryna, a speech- Mei is more confident as a parent.
videoclips that Priya had taken of herself “With these new skills I went home and
language therapist working with Joe, She is now feeling good about what she Pattern
implementing the strategies. got out of my comfort zone. I started
had few practical strategies to share is doing for her child. She has stopped A repeated set of actions acting silly with Joe, and immediately
with parents and families struggling to What were the results? the one-to-one private speech-language
achieved an engaging playtime with him.
connect with their children with autism. therapy sessions and now says “I do Memory catchphrase
In the four months since the RBI and We have celebrated with lots more fun
speech therapy with him every day!”. Like an advertising jingle, that
the introduction of the Way to Play play every day since.
What happened? Mei feels more in tune with Joe and reminds you of something. Used
strategies there has been “a huge, huge
Katryna and Mei had a Routines Based has the skills to support her child’s here to remind of joyful interaction “Pattern, memory and variation worked
change”. The interactions between Joe
Intervention (RBI) conversation to development. She has introduced very well for Joe. My husband and
and the adults closest to him have been
help Mei identify her priorities. Her concepts like “all gone” and “stop” Variation Joe’s sisters also have adapted [these
transformed: there is more connection,
goals focused on participation in daily and Joe is now using these too. Slight changes to the pattern strategies] and Joe is now a much
more trust and everyone is more relaxed.
routines, especially mealtimes, and happier, playful and very cheeky boy.”•
The next steps are to involve Joe’s father
communicating using words. The intervention has impacted all areas Source: www.waytoplay.co.nz
more, to support more teachers at daycare
of learning. Joe is now using 13 words. All names are pseudonyms.
8 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 9
Giving Voice Aotearoa Awareness Week
We learnt how to be patient,
16–22 September 2018 put in the effort to understand,
– Tracy and invest in communication.”
400,000 Kiwis have a Top:
Canterbury
communication disability, University hosted
including an inability to a bake sale to
fundraise for the
speak and be heard easily, Christchurch
processing spoken and Aphasia Hub to ride
another rail trail
written language, and reading down south…
and following signs. Around never ever give up!
the country, speech-language Bottom left:
Message from Quote and top right
therapists raised awareness NZSTA’s Giving image:
of communication disabilities Voice Aotearoa Messages from
social media
and their role in ensuring campaign.
NZSTA’s Giving
Voice Aotearoa
everyone has a voice. • Bottom right: social media
Aphasia education campaign.
at Rotorua Library. Left:
Communication
stand at Kelston Deaf
Education Centre.
Far left:
The Speech
and Language
Therapist’s Club at
Massey University
raised awareness
using alternative
communication
methods with
the public at their
barbecue.
10 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 11
Area updates
Book review
“The person with dementia is
still there inside”
Kate Hedworth
Angela Caughey joined Brain Angela further shares her expertise “The person with dementia is still there
in her book How to Communicate inside” – a message repeated throughout
Day Auckland: The Amazing with Someone Who Has Dementia: this publication, and it certainly is a Northland It has been a busy year for our members, not always the most verbose crowd they
Brain. Angela was a panellist A Guide for Carers. As a speech- message worth repeating. Angela weaves particularly the last month. Our members continue to engage and contribute to
22 members participated in the Giving Voice Aotearoa the member network on a regular basis.
language therapist, this book has given empathy and compassion into pragmatic
discussing the topic me valuable advice and insight into chapters educating her readers about Eleven members attended our winter Week of Action in various and highly We also receive contributions from
Living Well with Dementia: the journey taken by those caring for common types of dementia and providing meeting. Everyone has been working creative ways. Several organisations overseas members, who can provide an
away over the winterless north winter around the city championed the Giving international perspective (for example,
research, community and care. people with dementia. It has a unique practical examples of communication
and is looking forward to warmer and Voice Aotearoa posters and postcards, the IDDSI update and various awareness
perspective and is dedicated in its focus strategies in action.
She talked passionately about on making communication possible sunnier days. We have welcomed Cindy and two speech-language therapists from programmes).
I recommend this book for professionals Middlemore Hospital ate only pureed
her personal experience caring with people often seen as hopelessly
and carers alike, to find easy-to-read
Blades and Vallari Chavan to Whangarei
The Auckland region has hosted many
unreachable. Angela writes not only of Hospital on maternity leave contracts, foods for a week (I’m looking forward to
for her husband who had advice and support, as well as to gain and Caroline Bartholomew now has reading about their experience). A strong
professional development courses,
her own experience and suggestions, including an excellent workshop
dementia for over 12 years, insight into the experience of brave a permanent position at the hospital. contingent made the trip to Dunedin for
but shares the stories of others, illustrating by Dr Caroline Bowen. We look
individuals who are getting on with Denise Poole has started at Blomfield the NZSTA Professional Development
and generously provided the variety of situations and challenges
whatever life throws their way. • School. Denise has recently moved to Symposium. We have welcomed many
forward to an exciting year ahead with
faced by carers supporting their loved upcoming opportunities in many areas
heartfelt yet practical advice ones (or not-so-loved-ones as Angela New Zealand from South Africa. • new members (including new graduates
including AAC, dysphagia, literacy
to Brain Day patrons. writes with refreshing honesty). and new arrivals to our shores), and several
Lucy Schumacher and phonological awareness, and cleft
have found the NZSTA’s information and
palate and velopharyngeal insufficiency
support network highly useful.
(VPI). There is also regular patronage to
Auckland The shift to a predominantly various special interest groups, and these
317 members teleconference-led area meeting has continue grow year on year.
been met with positive feedback from
It has been my privilege to represent the Thank you to all the members, both vocal
our members, who appreciate the
How to Communicate with Someone greater Auckland region over the last and silent, who continue to advocate for
flexibility and accessibility of the new
Who Has Dementia: A Guide for Carers year, carrying on from the great work us, our colleagues, and the communities
format, although some have lamented
by Angela Caughey done by Fern Jones. Auckland is home to we work with. I look forward to being of
the loss of the “social” aspect of
Published by Calico Publishing, May 2018 the highest number of NZSTA members, service in the year ahead – same Bat-time,
meetings. The meetings have regularly
128 pages who come from health, education, same Bat-channel. I’d also like to take this
have 45 to 60 participants, and though
research, as well as private practice. opportunity to thank Philippa Friary for her
RRP $35
12 • Communication Matters Photo credit: Graeme Murray Communication Matters • 13
incredible contribution to the NZSTA and results of early intervention for patients and I presented literacy instruction with an SLT” and “working in private practice”. Otago/Southland There have been many changes of staff
the profession. We have greatly benefited with aphasia. Dr Robin Matthews from adults with intellectual disabilities. Thanks also to Charis Siow, Helena Sincock in the region partly due to a high number
from her presence in our meetings. And BOPDHB successfully defended his PhD and Livvy Pride for organising these
54 members of speech-language therapist babies
Amanda White’s doctoral work continues
finally, hearty congratulations to Annette in research around singing and its impact well‑attended events. We look forward Attendance at meetings has ranged from arriving this year!
with Talking Matters. Heather Drysdale’s
Rotherham, our new NZSTA president! on voice in Parkinson’s disease. to the student representatives running 7 to 9 members with a few attending
autism spectrum disorder teen girl meet Members who attended the ISAAC
We look forward to an exciting chapter these events again next year. • remotely. At the end of June 2018
The members have been very supportive up is going well at Hutt Valley Child (International Society for Augmentative and
for the NZSTA. • Kathryn Palmer stood down as area
and enthusiastic which has been very Development Team. MoE’s fluency group Ruth Ramsay & Kate Cook Alternative Communication) conference
representative and I took over role.
Akshat Shah much appreciated! It is an exciting time sessions continue in the Porirua-Tawa- in Australia gave very positive feedback
I would like to thank Kathryn on behalf of
to be a member of the NZSTA and I hope North Wellington area with preschool, and shared some useful resources. Since
to continue to share all my learnings and early school age, and pre-adolescent University of Canterbury the members for doing a great job.
the NZSTA Professional Development
Waikato/Bay of Plenty passion with my area members. Tama tu, groups. REAP Wairarapa is starting an oral 40 members Area meetings continue to pose a Symposium was held in Dunedin this year,
72 members tama ora; tama noho, tama mate kai (he language initiative in early 2019. Nelson- technical challenge to ensure all members we had good representation at the event.
Our Giving Voice Aotearoa bake sale
Tēnā koutou katoa. This year has been who stands, lives; he who sits, perishes). Marlborough Child Development Service on campus was a highlight in our week meeting via Zoom can hear adequately. There was a wide range of high-quality
another exciting one with lots of The NZSTA has certainly been standing wishes Helen McLauchlan all the best in of action. We worked with aphasia We are keen to resolve this as effective presentations, made all the better by
collaboration and change. Annabelle this year and we all need to continue her new endeavour. They also are making advocate Junelle Robinson and her remote access is critical for our very wide the opportunity to network with fellow
Hastings (née Blue) stepped down as our to stand with them and appreciate changes following their communication friends to create a baking and scone geographical region. Whilst our attendees speech-language therapists and the lovely
area representative and I have had the all they do for us and our profession. access self-audit. • stall to raise money for the Aphasia Rail work with a wide cross-section of client food on offer to keep the grey matter
privilege of taking on the role. Our area Ngā manaakitanga. • Trail Fund. Across two days, we raised groups, we would welcome increased working. Dunedin also came to the party
Shannon Hennig
covers a wide region. We continue to $854 – this exceeded our expectations! representation from Ministry of Education with some lovely spring weather.
Gwen Kerrison
have attendance from both MOE, DHB It was fantastic to have the student (MoE) speech-language therapists as
The Aphasia NZ group in Dunedin
employees as well as those in private Canterbury/Westland speech-language therapist community most attendees work for Ministry of
continues to thrive and grow due to
practice which has taught us about Wellington/Nelson 184 members rally together to donate baking and time. Health (MoH) or in private practice.
the enthusiasm of Alison Zani, regional
the different challenges and successes 89 members We were able to educate the university Members have embraced the Giving Aphasia NZ coordinator, and invaluable
This year of meetings have flown by!
across sectors. community on what we do as speech- Voice Aotearoa campaign. We have transport assistance from Driving Miss
For Giving Voice Aotearoa, we prepared Thank you to everyone coming along
language therapists, whilst also helping passionate champions, Bridget McArthur, Daisy, who received a Communication
There have been many staffing changes a lesson plan to share with schools and in person, “Zooming in” or adding
a great cause. Alison Zani and Warren Cossou, who have Access Award at the symposium.
with new roles being introduced to passed out lots of posters to libraries, comments to the minutes – it’s a great
further promote the speech-language Work and Income New Zealand offices, way to share everyone’s thoughts and We aim to continue with our student some great ideas for raising awareness.
IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet
therapy profession within allied health Minister of Parliament offices, hospitals, bring people together. professional development events next There have been a range of initiatives
Standardisation Initiative) implementation
and beyond in the health sector. and even a veterinary clinic! year. We are currently considering already: articles in local newspapers,
This year our practicing members have is ongoing in the region, posing some
Meghann Grawburg has been appointed discussions on foetal alcohol syndrome, meeting with a local councillor,
Many in our area attended the NZSTA supported and provided professional challenges for the SDHB team due to the
to the professional lead role at Bay of working in Paris, and working with communication training for hospital
Professional Development Symposium. development events, especially for diet texture terminology currently used
Plenty District Health Board (BOPDHB) Parkinson’s disease. • reception staff and Driving Miss Daisy
Naomi Bondi presented her research our NZSTA student members. A big by their food service provider. •
and myself as clinical lead in Waikato staff. Looking to the future, the Southern
with the Wellington Aphasia Relaxation thanks goes to Brenda Sargent-Bradley, Helena Sincock & Livvy Pride District Health Board (SDHB) team Meryl Jones
DHB. Biddy Robb is now in a permanent
Group; Sarah Spence and Claire-Ellen Jody Govan, Morgan Curry, Ashleigh we would love to help make the new
role at Tairāwhiti DHB and they are
Brewer presented CommunicAprons: A Neumann and Carol Croy. They have Dunedin Hospital as communication
involved in the rural interprofessional
Tool to Support Total Communication at shared their knowledge on topics such as accessible as possible.
education programme (TIPE). BOPDHB
Kimi Ora School; Gabi Iseli talked about “SLTs supporting with paediatric feeding
finished their involvement with the VERSE
dysphagia following spinal cord surgery; in the community”, “working overseas as
research and are eagerly awaiting the
14 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 15
NZSTA Board Member update NZSTA Board Member update
Member networks Professional standards
Jodi White membernetworks@speechtherapy.org.nz Dr Anna Miles professionalstandards@speechtherapy.org.nz
Member queries for the NZSTA Board A: This is a great question. Some of the Access Alliance and the Access to support the NZSTA’s response.
Q: What is the ratio of non-member to assistance may be available if the Matters campaign working towards Feel free to respond independently or
member SLTs? event meets criteria. Please check the better service to New Zealanders from your workplace. You should have
professional development policy on with communication disabilities received the survey via email.
A: Based on the most recent census, the NZSTA website. For further advice, throughout the lifespan. Also, TalkLink
approximately 1200 people in Thank you for your support in
contact Claire Winward, the professional Trust can continue to be involved
New Zealand state they are speech- communication access advocacy.
development portfolio holder. We are with clients after they leave school if
language therapists. NZSTA has a also looking at updating our professional they have a trust-issued device.
Kia ora koutou, Thank you everyone who joined us in Registration & regulation
membership of just over 800 (including development policy and will consider this
student members). This is a great Q: Several queries have been Dunedin for our annual general meeting From 1 January 2019, all full members will
It was wonderful to see so many people request, as financial assistance of this type
membership proportion and enables us received by members wanting to and NZSTA Professional Development be able to call themselves a “speech-
at the recent NZSTA Professional would need to be written into the budget.
to have more power as a collective force. know how to obtain continuing Symposium. language therapist registered member
Development Symposium. On a personal
Update to last issue’s queries professional development (CPD) with the NZSTA”.
level, it was wonderful to meet some of Q: Can we have the second Giving Voice Parliamentary & Government
points when working in a role such as
our area and student representatives who Aotearoa poster uploaded to the website, Q: There is a gap in service for students submissions The NZSTA are working with employers
a manager with minimal face-to-face
are doing such a great job keeping us so members can then download? who use a communication system and and encouraging the public to only
clinical component. We have received the announcement of
connected. have an ongoing need for speech- engage in an agreement with speech-
A: We are not planning to do this as the the Ministry of Education Draft Disability
language therapy input after they leave A: There are plenty of ways to language therapists registered with the
Thank you all for your continued support quality of poster when downloaded from and Learning Support Action Plan release.
school. What can we do? earn points without face-to-face NZSTA. More information can be found
of the area meetings and feedback to the website is quite poor. The banner Feedback is due by 31 October. You can
contact. Please refer to the CPD on the NZSTA website.
the NZSTA Board’s responses. We have will be available for use on Facebook A: This is something that NZSTA takes find the draft plan on beehive.govt.nz.
Log Information page on the NZSTA
addressed queries that arose from the and Twitter. This has been shared with seriously and our previous response Upcoming NZSTA policy
website with links to policy and FAQ This action plan is positive for our
recent round of area meetings. Please members via the area representatives. to this query was an error. There are
documents for more information. communities. There is a focus on increased • Prosthetic Surgical Voice Restoration
also remember to check the NZSTA several ways we are trying to support
Q: Can the NZSTA to provide upfront For specific advice, please contact support, early assessment, cross- (SVR): The role of the speech and
website to access the national collated these students. NZSTA Board Members
funding for invited speakers or Claire Winward, the professional disciplinary and cross-sector working, language therapist.
minutes as these are not emailed. If you Annette Rotherham and Anna Miles
presenters to member-hosted events? development portfolio holder. • well-being and resilience, and improved • New Zealand speech-language
would like your area’s meeting minutes, recently met with Minister of Disability
Often the initial cost is too much for coordination of services. The NZSTA, therapy clinical practice guideline
please contact your area representative. Issues Carmel Sepuloni to discuss
members to pay personally and wait for however, feel the voice of the speech- on children’s eating, drinking and
communication access for people with
Ngā mihi, reimbursement. language therapist is critical to ensure the swallowing (paediatric dysphagia).
disabilities. NZSTA is an active member
Jodi action plan truly works for children.
Anna
Members’ opinions are greatly needed.
The NZSTA Board and Expert Adviser
Group have created a member survey
16 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 17NZSTA Board Member update NZSTA Board Member update
Māori & cultural development Communications
Renee Taylor culturaldevelopment@speechtherapy.org.nz Amy Oughton communications@speechtherapy.org.nz
Unfortunately, like many other organisations The success of this role will be measured to inspire and develop children’s and difference in the lives of those we work
across sectors it appears that a tokenistic by creating safe environments for adults’ communication skills, confidence with and within the communities we live
approach prevails. We talk about Māori participants from across the profession and self-belief through drama, music and in. We really are superheroes.
in the third tense and, more concerning, to feel free and valued, so they come musical theatre performance. We also
September has been a month full of
in a deficit way. We are good at listing all forward, understand and actively engage run a Confident Communicators holiday
inspiration and education, with the
the negative statistics but nowhere to be in seeking, finding and implementing programme which is a combination of
NZSTA Professional Development
seen are examples of success. My current solutions to Māori inequity. speech-language therapy, drama and
Symposium in Dunedin, Giving
role has no specific description, no musical theatre.
Kia ora koutou, I will not support a “dial a kaumātua/ Kia ora from a very small town in Voice Aotearoa Week of Action and
prerequisite of skillset or competencies.
kuia” or “only undertaken by Māori or South Canterbury! Prior to moving to Twizel, I worked International Accessible Information Day.
We had a successful NZSTA Professional No outcomes or outputs. “Just do the
only those who are proficient in te reo at Christchurch Public Hospital. After reflecting on this month, I hope
Development Symposium in Dunedin Māori thing” – whatever that means. This is my first update as the
Māori” tokenistic approach. Christchurch is where I started many of you came away feeling just
with a great turnout of members who It seems the role is about ticking boxes, communications portfolio holder.
developing my passion for awareness as inspired, motivated, educated and
gathered and shared their research such as taking care of karakia, whakatau, I invite all our members to come forward Firstly, I would like to say that I feel very
campaigning by getting involved in the proud to call yourself a speech-language
and work experiences. Furthermore, pōwhiri or waiata at conference or and offer their support, experiences privileged and honoured to be given
International Communication Project therapist in Aotearoa New Zealand as
we continue to support our indigenous seminar gatherings. or suggestions, and to join me on this this opportunity and I look forward to
and being the campaign lead for Giving I did.
whānau in Australia in preparation for our journey moving forward. working alongside the NZSTA Board and
So my approach has been very personal. Voice Aotearoa. After taking a break from
joint conference in Brisbane 2019. We fellow speech-language therapists. The last couple of weeks have been
I am of Māori decent, I am also of Ngā mihi, these incredibly important campaigns
also continue to work towards having an all about transition. Annette has been
Albanian, English and Scottish decent. Renee Seeing as many of you won’t know me, to have my son, I am looking forward to
NZSTA kaumātua to help support and handing over her communications
I am monolingual. I was brought up I thought I would use this issue to tell getting involved again.
guide our association. portfolio work and talking through new
agnostic/atheist but with Christian you a bit about myself. I live in Twizel in
Accessibility is something that has always ways to drive awareness in 2019. I am
Being in this role for just over a year now Orthodox values. I am passionate and the beautiful Mackenzie Country. I have
been important to me. Accessibility for really looking forward to working with
I thought I’d take this opportunity to reflect will speak up wherever I witness injustice, a husband, a large and very loud dog,
those with a communication difficulty or Geneva, our Giving Voice ambassador, in
and share with you the observations and unfairness or unethical behaviours or and a crazy but gorgeous one year old,
disability, but also accessibility of service, our new consumer group, and designing
challenges that I’ve encountered. practices. I am also proud standing in the Oscar, who keeps me on my toes!
especially for those living in a rural area. a blueprint and a workshop for the next
sun and casting my own shadow. I do not
Firstly, I am very impressed with the I started my private practice almost two Where you live shouldn’t restrict you from Giving Voice Aotearoa campaign. I have
feel I need to fit in or become someone
commitment and eagerness from the years ago and work across both health fulfilling your dreams, what you want to some big boots to fill! This will be a very
else’s shadow. I will not be made to feel
NZSTA Board Members to embrace and education, offering services to all achieve, and especially from accessing exciting and busy nine months.
guilty or inadequate because I do not
and support a kaupapa to address and ages. Another part of my work is running services that you want or need.
bless food or speak or write in fluent Take care,
improve Māori health outcomes. the Mackenzie Performing Arts Academy
te reo Māori. I am very passionate about the work Amy
for children and adults right across the
we do as speech-language therapists
Mackenzie Country. This academy aims
and believe we really do make a critical
18 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 19NZSTA Board Member update
Professional development Contact details
Claire Winward professionaldevelopment@speechtherapy.org.nz
NZSTA Board Members
President Annette Rotherham president@speechtherapy.org.nz
Communications Amy Oughton communications@speechtherapy.org.nz
I would like to thank again everybody who So, onwards and upwards! I am already
Member networks Jodi White membernetworks@speechtherapy.org.nz
took time out of their busy schedules to looking forward to our joint conference
make this event such a great success: with SPA in 2019 (especially as I don’t Professional development Claire Winward professionaldevelopment@speechtherapy.org.nz
• Our Keynote speakers – Jane Carroll have to organise it). For those of you Professional standards Anna Miles professionalstandards@speechtherapy.org.nz
(and her elusive brain) and Sue who are unable to make the trans-Tasman Māori and cultural development Renee Taylor culturaldevelopment@speechtherapy.org.nz
McDonell. Thanks, Sue, for making trip, we are in the throes of planning a
me realise why I have never liked milk! Wellington-based NZSTA professional Area representatives
development event to coincide with
Kia ora koutou, • All our other speakers – the standard Northland Lucy Schumacher ar.northland@speechtherapy.org.nz
our annual general meeting, so watch
was extremely high, as noted by
Well, it has been a busy few months this space! Auckland Akshat Shah ar.auckland@speechtherapy.org.nz
Gaenor Dixon, president of Speech
organising the NZSTA Professional Waikato/Bay of Plenty Gwen Kerrison ar.waikato.bop@speechtherapy.org.nz
Pathology Australia (SPA). I hope some Ngā mihi mahana,
Development Symposium – I hope
of you will join us across the ditch to Claire Central Elisa Mynen ar.central@speechtherapy.org.nz
you’ll agree it was worth it!
share our homegrown research to a Wellington/Nelson Shannon Hennig ar.wellington@speechtherapy.org.nz
The highlight of the symposium for me wider audience next year. Canterbury/Westland Kate Cook & Ruth Ramsay ar.canterbury@speechtherapy.org.nz
was seeing how closely aligned our • Our student speakers – it was great to
seemingly diverse work can be. As we Otago/Southland Meryl Jones ar.otago.southland@speechtherapy.org.nz
hear you share your research in such a
discovered, from newborn hearing confident and professional manner.
screening to palliative care, the core skills Student representatives
• Our student volunteers, Helena,
that we bring to our roles are the same Massey University Jacqui Morgan, Brianna Oosterbroek & Bo Young Choi sr.massey@speechtherapy.org.nz
Jacqui and Shauna – thanks for your
– empathy, collaboration, a passion for University of Auckland Nicole Liley & Shauna Pali sr.auckland@speechtherapy.org.nz
willingness to take on every task we
communication and, of course, lifelong
threw at you, and especially for writing University of Canterbury Livvy Pride & Helena Sincock sr.canterbury@speechtherapy.org.nz
learning. Every time I turned around,
all the personal thank you notes.
I saw speech-language therapists from
• All our session chairs – thanks for your Other contacts
different backgrounds and different areas
engaged in robust practice discussion. help in making sure we could finish National private practitioner
Bridget MacArthur privatepractice@speechtherapy.org.nz
on time. members’ representative
Administrator ONZL Limited admin@speechtherapy.org.nz • +64 9 475 0214
Speech, Language and Hearing
Editor: Anna Miles professionalstandards@speechtherapy.org.nz
Journal of APSSLH, HKAST & NZSTA
NZSTA www.speechtherapy.org.nz • admin@speechtherapy.org.nz • PO Box 302469, North Harbour, Auckland 0751
Communication Matters editor Karen Watson editor@speechtherapy.org.nz
20 • Communication Matters Communication Matters • 21Photos
NZSTA Professional
Development Symposium
The 2018 NZSTA Professional Development
Symposium was held at Otago Museum, Dunedin,
September 13–14. Copies of some presentations are
available on the NZSTA website. •
Top left:
Dervla Beaumont explains models of service delivery in her
team-based approach for enhancing the vocabulary learning
environment for children with language learning difficulties.
Top right:
(Left to right) Jacqui Morgan, Helena Sincock and Shauna Pali,
NZSTA student representatives and event volunteers, at the AGM.
Bottom:
Philippa Friary gives her thanks and closing remarks as she stands
www.speechtherapy.org.nz down as president.You can also read
