Speech therapy ‘significantly’ benefits young offenders
A recent European Commission funded research project into the effects of speech and language therapy on young offenders builds on existing evidence that this type of therapy can have a significant impact on young offenders.
The two year study, led by Ealing Youth Offending Team (YOT) and Ealing Hospital NHS Trust, has found that young offenders with moderate speech and language difficulties can show significant improvement in just six speech and language therapy sessions. The study, the first controlled one of its kind, compared a group of young offenders accessing the youth offending service in Ealing and a separate group in Hammersmith. The Ealing group was assessed for difficulties in communication and were given six intensive sessions with a speech and language therapist. The Hammersmith group underwent the screening but did not receive any therapy sessions, acting as the control group.
Both groups were then measured with self-rating questionnaires, interviews and assessment on language tasks. The results were reviewed to determine if improvement had taken place in areas liable to lead to reductions in re-offending. These areas included the ability to express feelings verbally and to understand other’s feelings, anger management, self esteem, and the ability to negotiate and compromise.
A spokesman for Ealing YOT said: ‘The report recommends that all staff working with young people be offered specialist training to better recognise and understand the impact of hidden communication difficulties on offending behaviour.’
The finding supports existing evidence which shows that speech and language therapy can also have a positive impact on young offenders by increasing the effectiveness of existing interventions and reducing offending. Those with more complex needs would gain from more individualised interventions and further research is needed in this area, the report found.
If you would like more information on ESF projects to support young offenders, take a look at the ESF-Works offenders and ex-offenders theme pages.
