I CAN’s response to DfE not intending to renew The Communication Trust’s contract

The Communication Trust (TCT) were informed just before Christmas that the DfE does not intend to renew the specialist speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) contract, which funds its programme of work. 

Octavia Holland, Director of The Communication Trust (TCT) said that this was ‘both a shock and a disappointment’. The Trust will continue to explore plans for how it can maintain a core service beyond the end of March. 

The Trust was founded in 2007 by Afasic, BT, the Council for Disabled Children and I CAN. They recognised that in order to make a lasting impact for children and young people, particularly those with SLCN, a collective and collaborative approach is necessary.

Since being formed, TCT has brought together over 50 organisations, combining the efforts of the not-for-profit sector and working constructively with Government and civil society to ensure positive outcomes for children and young people.

Bob Reitemeier, I CAN’s Chief Executive said, “We are greatly disappointed and worried by the news that The Communication Trust will not have their contract renewed with the DfE. The Trust is a hub for shared knowledge and practice to the workforce who work with children and young people with SLCN.”