Who can refer to the assistive communication service?
We accept referrals from health, education and social care professionals working with children within our accepted boroughs: Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham, Bromley, Greenwich, Bexley, Newham, Barking and Dagenham, Waltham Forest, Redbridge and Havering.
The child's GP must be be registered in these areas for them to be eligible for support from our service.
A key community therapist needs to be in place throughout the assessment process. They should be able to provide regular support to the patient and monitor the use of the equipment.
If a child is not eligible for support from us, this does not mean that they will not benefit from AAC. It means that this particular funding route is not appropriate for them at this time. We can advise referrers on other funding routes or provide support to local services in order for them to meet a child's needs.
How to make a referral
Please read the referral guidance chart (Word 85Kb) and eligibility criteria (Word 97Kb) prior to your patient referral.
Please complete the referral form (Word 280Kb) and then email to gst-tr.acs-hub@nhs.net
Please make sure any patient identifiable information is sent via a secure nhs.net email account.
Please phone to discuss referrals for inpatients on 020 3049 7751.