ABSTRACT
One of the vulnerabilities highlighted in legal legislature is difficulties with language and communication. Individuals with speech, language and communication needs are overrepresented in the criminal justice system. These needs are generally not well understood and therefore may prove problematic for practitioners to identify. Speech, language and communication needs can adversely impact an individual when attempting to access complex, highly verbally mediated settings such as police interviews and the courtroom. Difficulties accessing these processes may then impact on the individual’s right to a fair trial under Article 6 of the European Convention of Human Rights. This chapter introduces the wide range of speech, language and communication needs that individuals may experience; the role of speech and language therapy; and how these needs may impact the vulnerable individual’s progress through the system. The chapter discusses and compares the support that is currently available for individuals with speech, language and communication needs across the United Kingdom. Practical support, advice from individuals with lived experience and case examples are provided to assist practitioners in supporting vulnerable individuals.
