Made by a PURA parent in the UK. Information only, not medical advice. Read our disclaimer.

Communication & AAC

Many people with PURA syndrome communicate using AAC: signs, symbols, pictures or devices. Here is where UK families can find impartial help.

Read next: Choosing an AAC system for your child: a practical guide for families

Guide · last reviewed 1 November 2026 · information only, not medical advice

What AAC means

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) covers any way of communicating other than speech. Communication Matters explains it in two parts. Unaided AAC uses gesture, body language and signing, such as Makaton. Aided AAC uses picture boards and symbol books, through to tablets and eye-gaze devices.

GeneReviews notes that most people with PURA syndrome will need AAC. It advises that a speech and language therapist experienced in AAC works alongside PT or OT so the system and seating or positioning suit the child.

Getting impartial advice

Your child's speech and language therapist is the usual starting point. Ace Centre is a charity specialising in AAC and assistive technology, with a free advice line. Suppliers listed here, such as Tobii Dynavox, Smartbox and Liberator, can demonstrate equipment. Do get independent advice before buying, because the best system depends on your child.

Sources

7 listings

Ace Centre

Charity specialising in AAC and assistive technology, with a free advice line (0800 080 3115, as listed on its website).

Charity · UK-wide · checked 2026-11-01

Communication Matters

UK charity for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), with clear explanations of aided and unaided AAC.

Charity · UK-wide · checked 2026-11-01

Inclusive Technology

Supplier of assistive technology for special needs – AAC devices, switches, sensory tools and switch-adapted toys.

Supplier · UK-wide · checked 2026-11-01

Liberator

UK supplier of AAC solutions focused on language development, established in 1991.

Supplier · UK-wide · checked 2026-11-01

Smartbox

UK assistive technology company behind the Grid AAC software and communication devices.

Supplier · UK-wide · checked 2026-11-01

The Makaton Charity

Makaton uses symbols, signs and speech together to support communication; the charity offers resources and training for families.

Charity · UK-wide · checked 2026-11-01

Tobii Dynavox UK

Supplier of AAC devices, communication apps and eye-gaze trackers controlled by eye gaze, touch or switch.

Supplier · UK-wide · checked 2026-11-01

Missing someone? Suggest a provider.

Questions families ask

Will using AAC stop my child from talking?

This is a common worry. Ask your speech and language therapist about the evidence for your child; Communication Matters and Ace Centre also have family information.

Are suppliers on this page sponsors?

Not at launch. If a supplier ever sponsors the site it will be clearly labelled, and sponsorship never affects badges or the order of impartial advice.

Articles

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