Impact of communication disability

People with communication support needs face barriers because others may lack:

• understanding of the ways they communicate
• the knowledge, skills and resources to give them the opportunity to communicate to the best of their abilities. 

Everyday activities

Difficulty understanding what people say or write might affect everyday activities such as:

• understanding what a receptionist tells you
• finding your way around a building
• following a group discussion
• responding to an invitation letter
• reading the minutes of a meeting
• following instructions on a ballot paper.  

Difficulty expressing yourself through speaking or writing might affect everyday activities such as:

• giving your name to a receptionist
• asking for directions
• replying to a question during a group discussion
• filling in a booking form
• taking minutes
• completing an online questionnaire.

Decision-making

These barriers can also prevent individuals with communication support needs from being actively involved in decision-making affecting them and their community.