IN PICTURES: Western Trust Speech and Language Therapy Team enjoy visit to Guildhall

The Western Health & Social Care Trust (Western Trust) Speech and Language Therapy Team are continuing to raise awareness for Development Language Disorder (DLD). Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a hidden but common disability that affects 1 in 14 people causing difficulties understanding and using language for no known reason.

Speech and Language Therapists support children with DLD in Ebrington Speech and Language Class. Children attend the Speech and Language Class to receive specialist teaching and intervention to help support their speech and language needs. This week, they all visited the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council in the Guildhall, Derry to help the campaign of raising awareness of DLD, by sharing information and DLD facts with the Mayor.

Sinead Marlow, Western Trust Speech and Language Therapist for DLD explains: “The Speech and Language Therapy Department are committed to raising awareness of DLD. DLD results in a child having difficulties talking and/or understanding language.

“This is a lifelong condition that affects approximately two children in every classroom of children. It can affect literacy, learning, friendships and emotional wellbeing. Despite being a common condition, a lot of people still haven’t heard of DLD.

“It is so important that we help raise awareness of DLD to ensure that those affected can receive support from professionals including Speech and Language Therapists and teachers, which can make a real difference to their lives. The theme for the 2026 DLD Day is ‘Together for DLD’ because, by working together, we can build a better world for all with DLD.”

For any more information about DLD, please contact the Speech and Language Therapy Department in your local Health Centre, or visit the www.RADLD.org.