About Ace centre
Ace Centre: Empowering Communication through Assistive Technology
Ace Centre is a UK-based charity that has been at the forefront of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT) for over 30 years. The organisation was founded in 1994 with the aim of empowering individuals with communication difficulties to express themselves effectively, regardless of their age or ability.
At Ace Centre, we believe that everyone has the right to communicate, and our mission is to provide access to AAC and AT solutions that enable individuals to participate fully in society. Our team of experts includes speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, assistive technologists, and educators who work together to provide a range of services tailored to meet the needs of each individual.
Our Services
Ace Centre offers a range of services designed to support individuals with communication difficulties. These include:
Assessment: We offer comprehensive assessments for children and adults who require AAC or AT solutions. Our assessments are carried out by experienced professionals who use evidence-based practices to identify the most appropriate technology for each individual.
Training: We provide training courses for parents, carers, teachers, healthcare professionals, and anyone else interested in learning more about AAC or AT. Our courses cover topics such as communication strategies, device programming, switch access methods, sensory integration techniques etc.
Equipment Loan Service: We have an extensive range of equipment available on loan including communication aids such as iPads loaded with specialist software like Proloquo2Go or Grid3; switches; eye gaze systems; environmental control devices etc.
Advice Line: Our free advice line is available Monday-Friday from 9 am-5 pm on 0800 080 3115 where you can speak directly with one our specialists regarding any queries you may have about AAC/AT solutions.
Consultancy Services: We offer consultancy services for schools/colleges/universities/local authorities/care homes/hospitals etc., providing advice on how to implement AAC/AT solutions effectively.
Research and Development: We are committed to advancing the field of AAC/AT through research and development. Our team is involved in a range of projects aimed at improving access to communication technology for individuals with complex needs.
Our Approach
At Ace Centre, we take a person-centred approach to our work. This means that we focus on the individual's needs, preferences, and abilities when recommending AAC or AT solutions. We believe that everyone has unique communication requirements, and our aim is to provide personalised support that enables each individual to achieve their full potential.
We also recognise the importance of involving family members, carers, teachers etc., in the decision-making process. Communication is a collaborative effort, and we work closely with all stakeholders involved in an individual's care to ensure that they receive the best possible support.
Our Impact
Over the years, Ace Centre has helped thousands of individuals with communication difficulties achieve greater independence and quality of life. Our services have been instrumental in enabling children with complex needs to participate fully in education settings; adults with acquired brain injuries or degenerative conditions like Motor Neurone Disease (MND) have been able to maintain social connections; people who were previously unable to express themselves verbally have found new ways of communicating etc.
We are proud of our track record in delivering high-quality services that make a real difference in people's lives. Our commitment towards empowering individuals through assistive technology remains unwavering as we continue working towards creating an inclusive society where everyone can communicate effectively regardless of their ability level.
Conclusion
Ace Centre is more than just a charity; it's a lifeline for those who struggle with communication difficulties due to various reasons such as cerebral palsy or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With over 30 years' experience providing AAC/AT solutions tailored specifically for each individual’s unique requirements - from assessment through training & equipment loan service - Ace Centre is the go-to organisation for anyone seeking support in this field. Our team of experts is dedicated to empowering individuals with communication difficulties, and we are committed to advancing the field of AAC/AT through research and development. If you or someone you know requires assistance with communication, please don't hesitate to contact us on our free advice line 0800 080 3115.