Augmentative Communication & Writing Aids (ACWA)
Helping you access communication devices for people with intellectual disabilities
How to register:
Let’s ensure every person has the means to participate fully
Assistive devices that support communication and writing open doors to learning, connection, and the freedom for people to make their own choices.
Our Augmentative Communication & Writing Aids Program is a specialized clinic that supports people of all ages with intellectual disabilities and complex communication needs. We assess the benefit of assistive devices for each individual, help determine funding eligibility, and provide ongoing support.
Who we support
- Children and youth ages 0-18 with a confirmed intellectual disability
- Adults aged 18+ with a confirmed intellectual disability
- Children under age 6 who may have an intellectual disability
What to expect
Inquire
Once you inquire, we’ll confirm your referral and eligibility. We’ll then be in touch to start the registration process.
Work with an interdisciplinary team
Your team may support you with:
- Face-to-face and written communication assessment
- Funding eligibility
- Intervention
- Consultation
- Equipment support
- Skill-building workshops
- Drop-in support
To refer a client, complete the referral form and send by email to childrens.registration@surreyplace.ca or by confidential fax to 416-925-3402
In order to qualify for this program, all clients must meet the following criteria:
- Have a referral from a Speech-Language Pathologist or Occupational Therapist
- Live in Toronto (postal code starting with “M”)
- Clients 6+ must have a confirmed diagnosis of an intellectual disability
- Clients under the age of 6 have a suspected intellectual disability
There are also specific criteria for the two program branches (Face-to-Face Communication and Writing Aids). Please see below.
Face-to-Face Communication criteria:
People who cannot speak or have difficulty speaking and may use other ways to communicate, including facial expressions, pictures, symbols, sign language, objects, gestures, written words, drawing, communication boards, books, and speech-generating devices.
Writing Aids criteria:
People who have difficulty writing may be helped by using computer adaptations (e.g., computer accessibility settings, adapted mouse, word prediction software, alternate keyboards) to meet their writing needs. These adaptations are intended as a replacement for using a pen and paper, or standard computer system for writing.
Please see our referral form for detailed eligibility requirements.
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