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Purpose: Sociometric studies and adult reports have established that children with Language Disorder (LD) are at risk of peer relationship difficulties. However, we have limited knowledge of how children with LD understand friendship, whom they deem as a good or bad friend, and what role their friendship concepts play in their relationships with peers. This exploratory study aimed to conduct a qualitative investigation into the friendship concepts that children with LD hold and to explore their strategies for making friends. Methods: We conducted multiple, art‐informed interviews on the topic of friendship with 14 children with LD at the age of 6–8 years. Participating children were based in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. They attended enhanced provision, specific speech and language classes and mainstream classrooms. We used framework analysis to map children's responses to Selman's (1979) developmental model of interpersonal understanding, which espouses a theory of children's social development within the context of peer relationships. Results: The understanding of friendship formation in children with LD varied from physical presence to mutual support and sharing. Children's ideas about a good/bad friend represented the lowest developmental stage. Participants from the mainstream classroom demonstrated the highest stages of interpersonal understanding. Children with LD did not mention their language abilities as a barrier to making friends. Conclusion: There are limited studies exploring friendship directly from children with LD, and this study provides insights into this gap, by utilising art‐informed interviews. Children's immature understanding of a good/bad friend points towards a potential susceptibility to false friends, which we suggest needs further empirical validation. We also found that children with LD did not pay attention to their language difficulties when making friends, which raises questions about the ways diagnoses are shared with children. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: Children with Language Disorder (LD) are at risk of peer relationship difficulties. Studies to date are based on sociometrics and adult reports. Only a few studies employ participatory approaches to research with children, directly engaging children with LD when exploring their friendships What this paper adds: This paper directly asks children with LD about their understanding of friendship and strategies for making friends.Physical proximity and play are important to children.s understanding of friendship especially in recognising good and bad friends. This indicates potential reasons for children with LD being susceptible to false friendsAdditionally, children with LD do not perceive language and communication as a barrier to making friends. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Concepts around friendship and good/bad friends should be routinely assessed and targeted (if appropriate) in interventions. The study highlights the need to continue discussing practices around sharing diagnoses with children with LD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spoken discourse impairments post‐traumatic brain injury (TBI) are well‐documented and heterogeneous in nature. These impairments have chronic implications for adults in terms of employment, socializing and community involvement. Intervention delivered by a speech–language pathologist (SLP) is recommended for adults with discourse impairments post‐TBI, with an emphasis on context‐sensitive treatment. The developing evidence base indicates a wide array of treatment components for SLPs to evaluate and implement within their clinical practice. However, there is limited insight into how SLPs are currently treating discourse impairments and the rationales informing clinical practice. Aims: To explore the under‐researched area of clinical practice for spoken discourse interventions with adults post‐TBI, including treatment components and clinician rationales, and to contribute towards a shared knowledge base. Methods & Procedures: Participants were recruited via purposeful sampling strategies. Six SLPs participated from Australia, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US). Semi‐structured interviews were conducted via Zoom. Interviews were manually transcribed, coded and analysed via a qualitative content analysis approach. Outcomes & Results: :Participants described discourse treatment practices across various settings and TBI recovery stages. Results indicated that SLPs used numerous treatment activities, resources and outcome measures. Intervention approaches primarily targeted social communication skills, strategy development/utilization and insight‐building. Clinical practice conformed to available guidelines where possible, reflected best practice and incorporated components of the research literature. Participants reported using individualized treatment activities aimed at addressing client‐specific factors and rationales prioritized tailored, context‐sensitive and goal‐directed treatment. Conclusions & Implications: This study provided insight into a previously under‐researched area. It highlighted a wide range of treatment activities and factors informing current SLPs' treatment of spoken discourse impairment post‐TBI. Overall, clinical practice and rationales discussed in this study were aligned with best practice and emphasized a contextualized, individualized approach to discourse treatment across service settings and stages of recovery. Participants identified areas requiring further support, including access to training, resources and research, and the challenge of finding suitable outcome measures. Further investigation into discourse management post‐TBI, from initial assessment to outcome measurement, may help inform clinical decision‐making and the transfer of research to practice. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: Spoken discourse impairments occur in dialogic and monologic productions post‐TBI. Interventions targeting both genres are detailed within the research literature; however, studies exploring clinical practice and decision‐making for discourse interventions post‐TBI are limited. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: This study provides new insight into the current treatment targets, activities, resources and outcome measures employed by clinicians supporting adults with discourse impairment post‐TBI. It details the factors that influence clinical decision‐making for this caseload and identifies an emphasis on client priorities and the value of clinician experience. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: This study identifies the broad and complex considerations required to deliver context‐sensitive discourse intervention post‐TBI. It indicates the need for an in‐depth review from assessment to treatment outcomes to better understand and support this area of practice and to direct future research. This study also highlighted the role of clinician experience in discourse intervention and the value of sharing clinical knowledge and resources within and across the profession to support all levels of clinician experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early childhood teachers (ECTs) play a significant role in equipping children with oral language and emergent literacy skills ahead of school entry. They are well positioned to play a vital role in ensuring preschool children receive a high‐quality preschool curriculum to prepare them for later literacy learning. Aims: The purpose of this study was to explore early career ECTs' views and confidence regarding their role in providing preschoolers with oral language and emergent literacy support and to examine their perceptions of their preservice preparation. Methods & Procedures: Nine Australian early career ECTs were recruited via purposive sampling for an in‐depth, semi‐structured interview. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. Outcomes & Results: Participants attached strong significance to their role in facilitating children's oral language growth and emergent literacy skills and reported a range of practices to support children's learning. However, they rarely referred to using established language facilitation strategies or using dialogic book reading prompts. Further, emergent literacy concepts such as phonological awareness and print awareness were not routinely described as features of participants' classroom activities. Participants did not consistently make a clear conceptual distinction between the constructs of oral language and emergent literacy and often used these terms interchangeably. Notably, participants indicated that they did not feel confident in their ability to identify preschool children who were not meeting developmental language milestones and reported that they felt poorly equipped to do so by their preservice training. Conclusions & Implications: ECTs' strong willingness to support preschool children's oral language and emergent literacy skills may be hindered by gaps in their knowledge; these may contribute to important and missed opportunities for identifying and supporting preschoolers' oral language and emergent literacy growth. What this paper adds: What is already known on this subject?: High‐quality learning experiences in preschool are important for maximising preschoolers' oral language and emergent literacy growth. Early childhood teachers can play an important role in facilitating this development and preparing children for later literacy learning. What this paper adds to existing knowledge?: The study findings provide insight into ECTs' perceptions of their role and support in developing children's oral language and emergent literacy skills. The results indicated ECTs did not feel confident with their knowledge of children's language milestones or identifying children with language difficulties. Participants reported that their preservice training left them underprepared in the area of oral language. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: ECTs demonstrated a strong willingness to support preschoolers' oral language and emergent literacy skills. However, their self‐reported knowledge gaps and low confidence may have implications for the early detection of children who are not reaching language developmental milestones in a timely way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Engagement is recognized as an important factor in aphasia treatment response and outcomes, yet gaps remain in our understanding of engagement and practices that promote engagement from the client perspective. Aims: The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore how clients with aphasia experience engagement during their inpatient aphasia rehabilitation. Methods & Procedures: An interpretative phenomenological analysis approach guided the study design and analysis. Data were collected through in‐depth interviews with nine clients with aphasia, recruited through purposive sampling, during their inpatient rehabilitation admission. Analysis was completed using a variety of analytic techniques including coding, memoing, triangulation between coders and team discussion. Outcomes & Results: The analysis revealed that for clients with aphasia in the acute phrase of recovery, the rehabilitation process resembles travelling on a journey through a foreign land. Successful engagement in the journey was accomplished when one had a therapist who served as a trusted guide and was able to be a friend, invested, adaptable, a co‐creator, encouraging and dependable. Conclusions & Implications: Engagement is a dynamic, multifaceted and person‐centred process involving the client, provider and rehabilitation context. Findings from this work have implications for measuring engagement, training student clinicians to be skilled facilitators in engaging their clients and implementing person‐centred practices that promote engagement within clinical settings. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: Engagement is recognized as an important factor in rehabilitation treatment response and outcomes. Prior literature suggests that the therapist plays a critical role in facilitating engagement within the client–provider relationship. Communication impairments associated with aphasia may negatively impact a client's ability to develop interpersonal connections and participate in the rehabilitation process. There is a dearth of research directly exploring the topic of engagement in aphasia rehabilitation, particularly from the perspective of clients with aphasia. Capturing the client perspective can provide novel insights regarding practices to foster and maintain engagement in aphasia rehabilitation. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: This interpretative phenomenological study revealed that for individuals with aphasia in the acute phase of recovery, the rehabilitation process resembles travelling on a sudden and foreign journey. Successful engagement in the journey was accomplished when one had a therapist who served as a 'trusted guide' and was able to be a friend, invested, adaptable, a co‐creator, encouraging and dependable. Through the client experience, engagement is seen as a dynamic, multifaceted and person‐centred process involving the client, provider and rehabilitation context. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: The current study highlights the complexity and nuance of engagement within the rehabilitation context, which has implications for measuring engagement, training student clinicians to be skilled in engaging their clients and implementing person‐centred practices that promote engagement within clinical settings. It is necessary to recognize that client and provider interactions (and thus engagement) are embedded in and influenced by the broader healthcare system. With this in mind, a patient‐centred approach to engagement in aphasia care delivery cannot be achieved through individual efforts only and may require prioritization and action at the systems level. Future work is needed to explore barriers and facilitators to enacting engagement practices, in order to develop and test strategies to support practice change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People with post‐stroke dysphagia often require informal care from family to facilitate safe swallowing, modify food/drink or administer tube‐feeds. Previous survey studies have found dysphagia may increase family caregiver burden. However, the experiences of family members in this population have not been fully explored. Aims: To explore family members' experiences of living with a spouse with post‐stroke dysphagia. Methods & Procedures: This exploratory qualitative study used one‐to‐one semi‐structured interviews to explore family members' experiences. They were asked open questions about previous eating routines, dysphagia onset, their role and future hopes. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically with an inductive approach to determine key features of family members' experiences. Outcomes & Results: Five spouses aged 70–93 years participated. Their relatives' strokes happened 3 months to 3 years before the interview. Five themes were identified: 'I do all of it'; making sense of dysphagia; emotional responses; reflecting on relationships; and redefining lifestyle. Conclusions & Implications: It is important to consider family members' perspectives as they often provide vital care to loved‐ones with dysphagia. In relation to eating and drinking, maintaining elements of previous routines seems important to families. Healthcare professionals should consider these when making recommendations for rehabilitation. Family members have differing perspectives of the comparative impact of dysphagia; patient and family priorities should be explored for healthcare professionals to provide better‐targeted support. What this paper adds: What is already known on the subject: Informal caregivers, often spouses, play a vital role in supporting the health and well‐being of older people with health conditions. The presence of post‐stroke dysphagia may present increased challenges for the informal caregiver. There are limited studies qualitatively exploring the experiences of informal caregivers in this population. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: Current health and social care provision for this population leaves informal caregivers feeling they have been left to manage dysphagia alone. Informal caregivers demonstrate a breadth of knowledge about their spouse's dysphagia, problem‐solving effective solutions. Informal caregivers have a range of interpretations of the nature and cause of dysphagia; leading to miscommunication with health professionals and complex emotional responses. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Healthcare professionals might consider ways in which to support dysphagic patients' families later in their care pathway, through scheduling reviews or running dysphagia patient and family groups. Health and social care professionals and policymakers should learn from informal caregivers' expertise to promote better health and quality‐of‐life outcomes for the patient and caregiver. Equal, open conversations between health and social care professionals and patients/families on their understanding of dysphagia may help informal caregivers to better voice their concerns and support mutual understanding. This has implications for adherence to recommendations, psychological well‐being and patient safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aphasia, a common consequence of stroke, which affects both communication and social functioning, and in turn, quality of life, is on the rise due to increases in stroke prevalence and survival rate. The rehabilitation of post‐stroke aphasia primarily falls within the purview of speech‐language pathology and research supports the effectiveness of such services. However, provision of aphasia rehabilitation services in sub‐Saharan Africa is associated with challenges. Aims: This study aimed to examine rehabilitation services for individuals with post‐stroke aphasia in Ghana by exploring the roles of the stakeholder groups involved in the assessment and treatment of post‐stroke aphasia in Ghana, as well as the challenges they encounter in providing or identifying services. The stakeholder groups included educational institutions, interdisciplinary healthcare professionals, and family caregivers of individuals with post‐stroke aphasia. Methods & Procedures: A qualitative case study approach was used to collect and integrate from multiple sources data such as demographic information, interview responses and program syllabi to develop a holistic image. Fifteen respondents from the stroke and speech therapy units at Komfo Anokye and Korle‐Bu Teaching Hospitals, University of Ghana, and University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ghana were purposively sampled. Interview questions were developed and centred on aphasia education and training, knowledge of speech‐language pathology services, speech‐language pathology service delivery, access to speech‐language pathology services, challenges in both delivery and access to speech‐language pathology services and suggestions for improving speech‐language pathology services. In‐person and virtual interviews were conducted after demographic information was collected. Interviews were analysed thematically, and demographic information and program syllabi were triangulated with the interview data collected. Outcomes & Results: All stakeholder groups identified concerns with current aphasia services in Ghana. Issues raised included the insufficient number of speech‐language pathologists, lack of awareness of speech‐language pathology services for post‐stroke aphasia (among healthcare professionals and the public), absence of aphasia management information and clinical training in educational programming, lack of interest in speech‐language pathology training programs, financial challenges, spiritual and traditional beliefs and geographic barriers (i.e., speech‐language pathology services are currently available in only a few cities). Conclusions & Implications: These findings emphasised the need to improve post‐stroke aphasia rehabilitation in Ghana. The process of data collection itself educated respondents on the importance of post‐stroke aphasia rehabilitation, and by identifying barriers, strategies to improving services, such as designing standardised aphasia assessments for the Ghanaian context, can now be initiated. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: To address post‐stroke aphasia, evidence‐based speech‐language pathology services are provided. However, there is a paucity of studies on post‐stroke aphasia services in Ghana, preventing an accurate report of services and practices in the country. What this study adds: This study provides an overview of the existing rehabilitation services for post‐stroke aphasia in Ghana. It highlights challenges facing the existing services and suggested strategies to improve post‐stroke aphasia services. What are the clinical implications of this work?: The study created awareness among healthcare professionals and general public (study participants) about the importance of rehabilitation services for post‐stroke aphasia. Based on the study findings, appropriate stakeholders such as policy makers, researchers, and healthcare professionals can further design assessments and interventions to improve rehabilitation, including speech‐language pathology services, for post‐stroke aphasia in Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Total laryngectomy (TL) results in permanent functional changes requiring rapid development of complex new skills. A significant portion of this learning happens in the acute post‐surgical stage. There is increasing interest in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols in TL; however, implementation has been difficult. COVID‐19 has placed significant pressures on acute services, requiring rapid service changes for TL patients. Aims: To understand the acute patient experience of having a TL both before and during COVID‐19. Methods & Procedures: Semi‐structured interviews using a pre‐designed topic guide were conducted with 10 people who had undergone a TL within the last 2 years. Participants were recruited by their speech and language therapists using purposive sampling. Braun and Clarke's iterative approach to data collection and thematic analysis was used to generate key themes from the data. Outcomes & Results: Thematic analysis identified four main themes: (1) pre‐operative information‐giving: 'it was just words'; (2) decision‐making influences: 'I just wanted them to get it all out and get it over with'; (3) coping with adjustment to the new normal: 'this is part of me now'; and (4) the importance of relationship‐building: 'when you've had something like this, you need some care and understanding'. Conclusions & Implications: The need for an individualized approach to TL intervention which incorporates medical and psycho‐social approaches from pre‐treatment to acute discharge is vital. ERAS models should be reviewed to shift beyond the medical model alone. Rapid service changes due to COVID‐19 did not contribute any major changes to the acute patient‐reported experience. What this paper adds: What is already known on the subject: We know that ERAS protocols have the potential to improve patient outcomes following TL. However, the research does not consider anything other than the early oral feeding debate and it has therefore been difficult to implement ERAS protocols in current service models. COVID19 required head and neck cancer services to make quick changes to surgical pathways, with the potential that some ERAS protocols had been adopted inadvertently. In order to understand the impact of this, we need to understand the patient experience following TL both before and during COVID19. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: This paper used qualitative interviews to understand the acute patient experience following TL both during and before COVID19. Findings from these interviews highlighted that people were on the most part, well prepared for the functional changes they would experience after surgery. However, people felt there were gaps in service delivery at the pre‐treatment and early discharge home period. Overall, the gaps identified were from a more psycho‐social need suggesting that future ERAS models of care should consider both medical and psycho‐social principles to enhance patient experience and outcome. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Pre‐treatment services provided to people who have a TL could be reviewed to help maximize long‐term adjustment to life. Areas which could be reviewed include the method and mode of information delivery. Further work needs to be done in partnership with community services to improve the immediate discharge home experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Above cuff vocalisation (ACV) involves the application of an external flow of air via the subglottic port of a tracheostomy. ACV can facilitate vocalisation and may improve swallowing and quality of life for patients with a tracheostomy. A recent systematic review highlighted the limited evidence available for the acceptability, effectiveness, safety or optimal implementation of ACV. Aims: To explore the experience of healthcare professionals (HCPs) using ACV and their perceptions of best practice. Methods and Procedures: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a range of HCPs with experience using ACV. Topics included: experiences with ACV, management of ACV, opinions about ACV, impact of COVID‐19, future directions for ACV and impact on length of stay. Interviews were conducted online from December 2020 to March 2022. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Outcomes and Results: Twenty‐four HCPs were interviewed from seven countries and five professional groups. Four interconnected themes were developed: (1) moral distress amplifying the need to fix patients; (2) subjectivity and uncertainty leading to variations in practice and purpose; (3) knowledge and experience leading to control and caution; and (4) worth a try or a last resort. Theme four contained three sub‐themes: (a) part of the toolbox; (b) useful but limited tool; and (c) following the patient's lead. The moral distress experienced by HCPs and their essential 'need to fix' patients seems to underpin the varied opinions of ACV. These opinions appear to be formed primarily on the basis of experience, because of the underlying subjectivities and uncertainties. As knowledge and experience with ACV increased, and adverse events were experienced, most HCPs became more cautious in their approach to ACV. Conclusions and Implications: More research is needed to reduce the subjectivities and uncertainties surrounding ACV. The implementation of standardised procedures, processes, and competencies may help to reduce the frequency of adverse events and support a more controlled approach. Widening the focus of the purpose of ACV to include swallowing may help to maximise the potential benefits. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: There is limited and low‐quality evidence for above cuff vocalisation (ACV) and clinical application and practice varies substantially. However, the reasons for this variation in practice and healthcare professionals' (HCPs') opinions of ACV were unclear. What this study adds: HCPs' experiences and opinions of ACV vary as a result of the uncertainty and subjectivity surrounding ACV compounded by their personal experiences with it. A need for caution also appears to emerge as HCPs become more familiar and experienced with using ACV. What are the clinical implications of this work?: Implementing standardised procedures, safety processes and competencies may help to compensate for the uncertainty and subjectivity surrounding ACV and may reduce the frequency of adverse events. Widening the focus of purpose of ACV, including swallowing in addition to communication, may increase the number of potential candidates and increase the potential benefits of ACV. Using multidisciplinary team (MDT) simulation training for ACV competency development might help to improve MDT working and ACV implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Speech disorders in children with a cleft palate with or without a cleft lip (CP±L) are complex given the magnitude of influencing factors. Providing intervention to eliminate these speech errors is often challenging. Speech–language pathologists (SLPs) might have negative perceptions of the treatment of children with a CP±L. Aims: To explore how community SLPs perceive and experience the provision of speech intervention to children with a CP±L. Methods & Procedures: A total of 18 female community SLPs, aged between 23 and 62 years, were included in this study. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted. The interviews were analysed using an inductive thematic approach aiming to identify themes driven by the data. Trustworthiness of the data was achieved by including researcher triangulation (involving three researchers with different research backgrounds) and deviant case analysis of two cases. Outcomes & Results: Initial responses demonstrated that the community SLPs were excited and enthusiastic to treat children with a CP±L. Expanding on these initial reports, however, they revealed that their excitement turned into professional self‐doubt and insecurity when confronted with the treatment challenges inherent with this population. To cope with this self‐doubt, they outlined several responsibilities for the cleft team SLPs. They expressed a strong desire to receive confirmation and approval on their treatment practices from more experienced SLPs (i.e., the cleft team SLPs). Their perceptions were dominated by a polarized thinking pattern. Treatment approaches were divided in categories as 'right' or 'wrong' and 'good' or 'bad'. Conclusions & Implications: The community SLPs are lacking professional confidence when treating children with a CP±L. They put themselves in a subordinate position towards the cleft team SLPs and expect the latter to provide ready‐made answers to problems and questions. This expectation can perhaps be explained by their fear of making mistakes during therapy preventing treatment progress. If they handle in accordance with the experts' advice, they cannot blame themselves in cases where no treatment progress is seen. Educational programmes need to pay more attention to gaining professional confidence (in the search for the most optimal treatment approach for each individual patient) rather than merely focusing on competency‐based learning tools. What this paper adds: What is already known on the subject: Speech disorders in children with a cleft palate with or without a cleft lip (CP±L) are complex given the magnitude of influencing factors. Providing intervention to eliminate these speech errors is often challenging. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: This study explored how community SLPs' perceive and experience the provision of speech intervention to children with a CP±L. The perceptions of community SLPs are dominated by a polarized thinking pattern. Treatment approaches are divided into categories as "right" or "wrong" and "good" or "bad". They lack professional confidence when they treat children with a CP±L. The community SLPs put themselves in a subordinate position towards the cleft team SLPs and expect the latter to provide ready‐made answers to problems and questions. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Educational programs in speech‐language pathology need to pay more attention to gaining professional confidence rather than merely focusing on competency‐based learning tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke and aphasia can have a profound impact on people's lives, and depression is a common, frequently persistent consequence. Social networks also suffer, with poor social support associated with worse recovery. It is essential to support psychosocial well‐being post‐stroke, and examine which factors facilitate successful adjustment to living with aphasia. Aims: In the context of a feasibility randomized controlled trial of peer‐befriending (SUPERB), this qualitative study explores adjustment for people with aphasia in the post‐acute phase of recovery, a phase often neglected in previous research. Methods & Procedures: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 20 people with aphasia and 10 significant others, who were purposively sampled from the wider group of 56 people with aphasia and 48 significant others. Interviews took place in participants' homes; they were analysed using framework analysis. Outcomes & Results: Participants with aphasia were 10 women and 10 men; their median (interquartile range—IQR) age was 70 (57.5–77.0) years. Twelve participants had mild aphasia, eight moderate–severe aphasia. Significant others were six women and four men with a median (IQR) age of 70.5 (43–79) years. They identified a range of factors that influenced adjustment to aphasia post‐stroke. Some were personal resources, including mood and emotions; identity/sense of self; attitude and outlook; faith and spirituality; and moving forward. Significant others also talked about the impact of becoming carers. Other factors were external sources of support, including familial and other relationships; doctors, nurses and hospital communication; life on the ward; therapies and therapists; psychological support, stroke groups; and community and socializing. Conclusions & Implications: To promote adjustment in the acute phase, hospital staff should prioritize the humanizing aspects of care provision. In the post‐acute phase, clinicians play an integral role in supporting adjustment and can help by focusing on relationship‐centred care, monitoring mental health, promoting quality improvement across the continuum of care and supporting advocacy. What this paper addsWhat is already known on the subjectAnxiety and depression are common consequences of stroke, with depression rates high at 33% at 1 year post‐onset. There is evidence that the psychological needs of people with aphasia are even greater than those of the general stroke population. Social support and social networks are also negatively impacted. Few studies have examined adjustment when people are still in hospital or in the early stages of post‐stroke life in the community (< 6 months). Further, many stroke studies exclude people with aphasia.What this paper adds to existing knowledgeAdjustment to living with stroke and aphasia begins in the early stages of recovery. While this partly depends on personal resources, many factors depend on external sources of help and support. These include doctors, nurses and hospital communication, their experience of life on the ward, and their therapists' person‐centred care.What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?Clinicians play an integral role in facilitating people with aphasia to utilize their personal resources and support systems to adjust to life after stroke. They can help by focusing on relationship‐centred care, monitoring mental health, promoting quality improvement across the continuum of care and supporting advocacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While evidence‐based practice is widely endorsed by researchers, clinicians and professional bodies as a guiding framework for the provision of quality care to clients, the reliance on efficacy evidence may overshadow the benefits of other knowledge forms in supporting intervention design and evaluation. Due consideration needs to be given to varied forms of evidence, including practice and patient evidence. Stuttering intervention for adults is one area in which there is a significant shortage of practice‐based research literature. Aims: This study aimed to add to practice evidence by exploring the perspectives of international researchers and clinical experts on the components of effective stuttering intervention. This practice‐based evidence will be used to inform the multi‐stakeholder co‐design of an evidence‐based stuttering intervention for adults. Methods & Procedures: Criteria defining expertise were developed based on a review of the literature. Experts were recruited using purposive sampling and snowballing. Seventeen international experts were approached, of which 10 completed semi‐structured interviews. Interview questions were developed and centred on five topics: the nature of stuttering; efficacy evidence base; intervention techniques, principles of effective intervention; and outcome measurement. Outcomes & Results: Inductive thematic analysis identified three overarching themes: 'One size doesn't fit all', 'A really collaborative relationship where we are both bringing our sense of expertise to this' and 'Some of the most frustrating things'. Conclusions & Implications: These findings emphasize the complexity of stuttering intervention, the need for individually tailored treatments and the role of multiple factors, beyond therapeutic technique, that influence treatment outcomes. Findings also demonstrate the benefit of collecting practice‐based evidence to support clinical decision‐making and intervention evaluation. What this paper addsWhat is already known on the subjectEvidence‐based practice involves the synthesis of multiple forms of knowledge, including research, practice and patient evidence to support clinical decision‐making and intervention evaluation. Research evidence for stuttering intervention effectiveness is the dominant form of knowledge in stuttering literature, while other forms such as practice and patient evidence are less represented.What this paper adds to existing knowledgeThis study provides valuable practice evidence for effective stuttering intervention components, including individually tailored intervention, person‐related factors and therapeutic alliance. It highlights the need to consider multiple forms of knowledge to guide the design and evaluation of intervention.What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?Clinicians should adopt a person‐centred care approach when designing and evaluating an intervention for adults who stutter. Multiple factors beyond therapeutic technique influence treatment outcomes and should be incorporated into any intervention for adults who stutter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a condition which affects an individual's ability to use and understand language. Terminological confusion, and the use of non‐evidence‐based diagnostic criteria has impacted access to services for this population for several decades. Changes in terminology and diagnosis were proposed as part of a UK‐based consensus study, Criteria and Terminology Applied to Language Impairments (CATALISE), in 2016 and 2017. Since the publication of the recommendations, there have been active efforts across several English‐speaking countries to support uptake of these recommendations into policy and practice. Aims: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of individuals who have been leading the dissemination of the CATALISE recommendations since their publication in 2017. The study was undertaken to inform future implementation efforts aimed at facilitating the adoption of the recommendations into policy and practice. Methods & Procedures: Researchers, practitioners and parents from nine countries were recruited to the study (n = 27). Online focus groups and semi‐structured interviews were conducted using topic guides informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Inductive thematic analysis was undertaken. Preliminary findings were member‐checked prior to completion of the analysis. Outcomes & Results: CATALISE recommendations were described as partially adopted by participants. Dissemination strategies included building a coalition, conducting educational meetings, and developing educational materials. Common barriers to implementation related to the complexity and compatibility of the recommendations, and practitioner confidence. Four themes were identified across the data set to guide future implementation efforts: (a) ride the wave, craft the narrative (b) reach across the divide, be brave (c) create space for multiple voices and, (d) support for speech and language therapistss on the front line. Conclusions & Implications: Individuals with DLD and their families should be included in future implementation planning. Engaged leadership is essential to address issues of complexity, compatibility, sustainability and practitioner confidence if CATALISE recommendations are to be integrated into service workflow and processes. Implementation science can provide a useful lens to progress future research in this area. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on this subject: Dissemination efforts have been undertaken to facilitate the uptake of recommendations from a UK‐based consensus study (CATALISE) in relation to developmental language disorder since publication across several countries. What this study adds to existing knowledge: The required changes in diagnostic practice are complex to implement. A lack of compatibility with healthcare processes and low practitioner self‐efficacy were also identified as a challenge to implementation. What are the potential or actual clinical observations of this work?: Parents and individuals with developmental language disorder need to be engaged as partners in future implementation planning. Organisational leaders need to facilitate the contextual integration of the changes within service systems. Speech and language therapists require ongoing case‐based opportunities to enhance their confidence and clinical reasoning skills to implement CATALISE recommendations successfully in their everyday practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Paediatric acquired brain injury (ABI) is one of the leading causes of neurodisability in childhood. The long‐term effects of ABI on cognition, behaviour and emotions are well documented. Previous research has found that communication is difficult for adolescents with ABI compared with typically developing peers. Quantitative studies have identified deficits in specific domains of speech and language, but no research studies have sought to capture adolescents' lived experiences of communication or explored the multidimensional nature of this. Aims: To explore adolescents' everyday experiences of communication following ABI. This research also offered adolescents an opportunity to give their views on an issue that has not previously been explored in relation to paediatric ABI. Method & Procedures: A qualitative study was undertaken using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) for in‐depth exploration of the lived experiences of communication following ABI. Participants were recruited from an NHS Trust in England. Six adolescents (aged 11–18 years) participated in semi‐structured interviews. Data analysis followed the guides for IPA. Outcomes & Results: The data revealed three main themes: the social world; communication competence; and life in the classroom. Adolescents experienced communication changes and challenges, which affected functioning and participation. Difficulties with communication affected identity, learning, relationships and confidence. Conclusions & Implications: These findings provide an insight into how communication is experienced in everyday life from the perspectives of adolescents with ABI. The study revealed that adolescents' individual experiences of communication were dependent on contextual factors. Sensitivity to communication changes was associated with the age when the ABI occurred. Difficulties with communication impacted on identity. Negative communication experiences at school affected a sense of belonging; peer group support helped some adolescents to cope with the communication challenges they faced. Further research is needed to explore how participation in communication is affected by paediatric ABI and what could be done to support this. It is recommended that increased attention should be paid by professionals to the psychological impact of communication changes and difficulties experienced by this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are multiple stakeholders involved in the introduction of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems to children with complex communication needs. Stakeholders such as speech–language pathologists (SLPs) and teachers who are external to the family unit play a key role in planning and implementing interventions. If this intervention is unsuccessful, it can result in parent rejection or abandonment of the AAC system. However, no studies explore the contribution of external stakeholders to AAC rejection and abandonment from the perspective of parents who have experienced such unsuccessful interventions. Aims: To explore parents' perceptions of how external stakeholders may contribute to the rejection or abandonment of an AAC system. Methods & Procedures: Data were collected as a part of a larger study that explored parent experiences of AAC rejection and abandonment. Within this study, semi‐structured interviews were completed with 12 parents who had rejected or abandoned an AAC system introduced to their child with complex communication needs. Data related to external stakeholder contributions were extracted from the interview transcripts, and a thematic analysis was conducted. Outcomes & Results: Analysis revealed four themes that captured the role of external stakeholders in the rejection and abandonment of AAC systems: (1) parents were influenced by the attitudes and experience of professionals; (2) parents did not feel supported by SLPs; (3) communication between stakeholders was not effective; and (4) parents had difficulties using AAC without a supportive community. Conclusions & Implications: This study highlights the importance of family‐centred service delivery when introducing an AAC system to the parent of a child with complex communication needs. SLPs may support parent acceptance of AAC systems by using family‐centred practices such as listening to parents, acknowledging their expertise and finding compromises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Descriptions of community‐based speech–language therapy (SLT) dysphagia practices and services are underrepresented in the research literature, despite the prevalence of dysphagia in the community. Owing to a globally ageing population and government drives to support people to remain living at home rather than in hospital or aged care, there is a growing need for SLT services to be responsive to the needs of clients living at home in the community, referred to in this study as 'community‐based clients'. Exploration of current SLT services and dysphagia care practices for this population may identify ways services can be designed and enhanced to better meet the needs of clients and carers. Aims: To explore the nature (i.e., characteristics) of dysphagia services and SLT clinical practices for adults with dysphagia living at home in the community. Methods & Procedures: Using a qualitative descriptive approach positioned within an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, this study explored SLT services and practices for adults with dysphagia living in the community to explain further and elaborate on findings from an earlier quantitative study. A total of 15 SLTs working with community‐based clients with dysphagia were recruited using purposive representative sampling. Content analysis was used to explore the data. Outcomes & Results: The overarching theme of community commands a different approach and was illustrated by three subthemes that highlighted how and why a different approach to dysphagia care in the community setting was necessary: (1) skills and mindset require adaptation in the community context; (2) values and approaches are different in the community context; and (3) organizational influences impact service delivery in the community context. From the data, it is apparent that the work undertaken in the community setting differs from dysphagia care in other settings and requires adapted SLT skills, values and approaches that encompass holistic care, client autonomy and carer engagement. SLT practices are also informed by organizational influences such as policies and resourcing, which in some services were enablers, while for others these presented challenges. Conclusions & Implications: Community‐based SLT services must continue to foster flexible, responsive practices by SLTs to ensure the needs of clients and carers are met now and in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interest in how stroke survivors might be better supported to manage life after stroke has grown rapidly in recent years, with a particular emphasis on enabling 'self‐management'. Post‐stroke communication difficulties may pose a unique barrier to longer term adaptation and adjustment. It is important to understand how stroke survivors with communication difficulties manage life after stroke and what support may be needed to facilitate this process. Aims: To explore how stroke survivors with communication difficulties manage life after stroke in the first year. Methods & Procedures: A cross‐sectional qualitative study involving in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with stroke survivors with communication difficulties (aphasia, dysarthria or apraxia of speech) and/or their family members at single time points during the first year post‐stroke. A total of 21 participants (14 stroke survivors and seven family members) took part in interviews for the study. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis. Outcome & Results: A total of six themes were identified: (1) strategies to manage changes to communication; (2) testing communication outside of the home; (3) balancing support and independence; (4) hope for recovery; (5) obtaining support from healthcare professionals; and (6) adapting activities and keeping busy. Stroke survivors with communication difficulties and their family members undertook significant work (practical, relational, emotional) to manage their condition. Adaptation and adjustment was often facilitated by 'doing'; testing out which activities could be managed independently and which required additional support. Some stroke survivors and their family members demonstrated considerable resourcefulness and creativity in developing strategies to manage their communication difficulties. Despite the work undertaken, many expressed a lack of confidence in their ability and feelings of powerlessness and abandonment at the point of discharge from community services. Conclusions & Implications: Stroke survivors and their family members develop personally meaningful and context‐specific strategies to adjust to and manage life after stroke. Future interventions should recognize, support and build upon the active work already undertaken by stroke survivors with communication difficulties and their families. Further support before and around the point of discharge from community services may be needed to help build confidence and skills to manage in the longer term. The benefit of a supported self‐management approach for stroke survivors with communication difficulties should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Access to treatments for mood disorders may pose a challenge to individuals with compromised communication ability. Speech–language pathologists (SLPs) have previously reported that their clients with aphasia decline formal psychological support; however, their role in their clients' help‐seeking has not been explored. Aims: To investigate SLPs' perspectives on how they currently support help‐seeking for mood problems in people with aphasia and factors they perceive to be impacting service uptake. Methods & Procedures: A qualitative interview study was conducted. SLPs in Australia working with people with aphasia in a clinical role were recruited. Transcripts of the interviews were subject to qualitative analysis to identify relevant themes. Outcomes & Results: Eighteen interviews were conducted. One overarching theme and three sub‐themes were identified as central to SLPs' experience. The overarching theme was of a 'double whammy' impact on help‐seeking: people with aphasia were subject to universal barriers associated with seeking help as well as additional barriers imposed by compromised communication. Three themes contributed to the overarching theme: (1) SLPs' understanding of barriers and facilitators to patients with aphasia seeking help; (2) the role of the SLP as a skilled helper for mood management; and (3) mood and communication as competing rehabilitation priorities. Conclusions & Implications: SLPs report both universal barriers to help‐seeking and those specific to their clients with aphasia and attempts to overcome these; however, there appears to be a dearth of accessible mental health services for people with aphasia known to SLPs, including psychological/counselling professionals who are skilled in communicating with people with aphasia. Health professionals working within and across post‐stroke and mental health services should recognize that people with post‐stroke aphasia are susceptible to a decline in mental health, are amenable to formal (and tailored) psychological support, and can be supported to seek help. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is increasing recognition that dysphagia has significant implications for a person's psychological well‐being, social participation and quality of life (QOL). However, a paucity of research exists regarding the clinical management of this area. To inform future research and the development of appropriate and beneficial resources and guidelines, a better understanding of the current practice of speech and language therapists (SLTs) in this area would be useful. This information will highlight current challenges to clinical practice and the ongoing development needs of the profession, which are, as of yet, undocumented. Aims: To determine the practices of SLTs when addressing QOL issues in individuals with dysphagia, the beliefs of SLTs regarding the impact of dysphagia on QOL, the current trends in assessing and managing QOL in dysphagia, and if variations in beliefs and practices in this area exist. Methods & Procedures: An anonymous cross‐sectional, non‐experimental survey study was used. The survey consisted of 18 questions exploring participants' beliefs and opinions regarding dysphagia and QOL, current clinical practice in the area, perceived facilitators and barriers, and education, training and development needs. The survey was created on Survey Monkey and disseminated by e‐mail link to SLT professional bodies. Purposive and snowball sampling were used and participants self‐selected based on the information provided alongside the e‐mail link. Inclusion criteria for the study were a qualification in speech and language therapy, proficiency in the English language, and access to a computer with the internet. Outcomes & Results: A total of 148 SLTs working across the UK, Ireland and South Africa completed the survey. Over 90% of respondents believe that dysphagia has a negative impact on QOL, but only 25% are currently satisfied with the amount of clinical time they can dedicate to this area. Staffing, resources, a lack of best‐practice guidelines and disease‐specific QOL assessment tools were cited as contributing factors. A number of facilitators and barriers to best practice were also highlighted. Based on these findings, professional development actions for the future are suggested. Conclusions & Implications: SLTs believe they have an important role to play in supporting QOL issues in dysphagia. However, it is reported that the area is currently under‐developed, under‐resourced and under‐supported. Increased awareness raising of the role of SLT, alongside the development of best‐practice guidelines and disease‐specific QOL assessment tools, will enhance the quality of care that can be offered in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Communication partner training (CPT) programmes for health and care staff working with people with the neurologically based communication disorders associated with stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and dementia are efficacious in improving communication. However, current programmes are lengthy and disorder specific, and therefore may not be suitable as staff training tools in environments with people with multiple communication disorders, and services with a variety of neurological populations. Aims: To identify common and distinct components of CPT programmes for stroke, TBI and dementia in order to determine whether there are common delivery methods and content that can be consolidated to improve implementation of CPT in health and care services. Methods & Procedures: A qualitative enquiry was used. Four CPT programmes targeting three disorders were identified from systematic reviews and literature searches. Programme data were recorded onto data sheets from manuals, study articles and supplementary materials, and were categorized using the Intervention Taxonomy (ITAX). Content analysis and elements of constant comparative analysis were employed to analyse the CPT programmes. Outcomes & Results: Delivery characteristics were similar across all four programmes. All were delivered face to face in either group or individual contexts. However, duration varied from 1 to 35 h. Six of the 12 categories of information provided were common across all programmes, including 'strategy' 'background to disorder', 'information about communication', 'information about program', 'negative behaviours to avoid' and 'purpose of program'. Programmes differed in the types of skill‐building techniques used, with the most common being videos (3/4 programmes), discussions (2/4 programmes) and trainer demonstrations (2/4 programmes). While strategies provided to trained partners targeted similar domains of communication, only 3/96 individual strategies were common to all programmes. Conclusions & Implications: There are both common and distinct components in content and delivery methods across CPT programmes. Further research is needed to evaluate the distinct components of the programmes, to determine which individual strategies are efficacious, and which approach to skill‐building techniques is most effective. The present study has contributed a comprehensive list of programme components, which can form a basis for describing and refining CPT programmes in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with speech‐sound disorders (SSD) constitute a significant proportion of speech–language pathologists' (SLPs) caseloads. Previous research has investigated the clinical practice of SLPs intervening with children with SSD; however, little is known about the clinical decision‐making underpinning their practice. Aims: The clinical decision‐making of SLPs working with children with SSD was explored to understand how their clinical decisions were influenced by: (1) beliefs about what works in therapy; (2) prior clinical experience; and (3) client and service‐related variables. Methods & Procedures: Semi‐structured, individual, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 11 SLPs. Inductive thematic analysis was used to identify and explore key ideas and themes. Outcomes & Results: Four themes emerged: (1) clinical decision‐making procedures were highly individualized; (2) parental involvement was viewed as central to the success and progression of therapy; (3) therapy procedures were influenced by practice‐setting constraints; and (4) engaging in evidence‐based practice within clinical settings was perceived as challenging. Conclusions & Implications: In clinical settings, a range of factors influence decision‐making and therapy provided by SLPs to children with SSD. These SLPs had a high regard for clients' values and preferences. Prior clinical experiences also shaped clinical practice. Clinical decision‐making was influenced by practice‐setting constraints. SLPs are under pressure in their workplaces and are struggling to manage the competing demands on their time. Large clinical caseloads, heavy workloads, current service‐delivery models and changing family structures are all impacting on the provision of therapy to children with SSD and therapy outcomes. As a profession, there is a need to consider these barriers and identify ways to overcome them in order to assist SLPs to routinely adopt the highest standards of clinical practice for children with SSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Participation in a group environment is an inherently complex undertaking for people with aphasia. It involves engaging in multi‐person interactions with other people who may have a range of communication strengths and strategies at their disposal. The potential challenges of community aphasia‐group participation and practice has had limited attention in the research literature. Evidence from group users have primarily been drawn from the perspective of long‐term members or those participating in highly specific and time‐bound groups. There is a need to explore the experiences of a broader sample, including people who have left groups, to improve our understanding of structures, processes as well as leadership behaviours that may facilitate positive group participation experiences. Aim: To examine the potential factors operating within the group environment that contribute to positive and negative participation experiences. Methods & Procedures: Twenty‐two people with aphasia participated in semi‐structured interviews about their experiences of community aphasia groups. People who maintained long‐term membership as well as those who had left groups were sampled. An interpretative phenomenological framework was employed to examine the data collected. Outcomes & Results: Seven factors emerged as central to participation experiences and contributed to the ability of people with aphasia to integrate and engage in the group space. These factors included: (1) balanced interactional patterns; (2) an open and non‐hierarchical group environment; (3) communication awareness and education amongst members; (4) meaningful activity; (5) ritual and structure; (6) composition and group size; and (7) group leadership. Conclusions & Implications: People with aphasia perceive community aphasia‐group participation to be beneficial to their ability to live well with aphasia. However, a range of challenges to successful participation are also evident. Inputs such as peer‐to‐peer communication strategies, shared roles and responsibilities, and consultation with regard to group objectives and processes provide group members with the opportunity to become active contributors, demonstrate competence and have influence over the group. When inputs are poorly implemented or absent, people with aphasia are at risk of feeling disabled and marginalized by the group experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The increase in the number of reported conversation partner programmes for conversation partners of people with aphasia demonstrates increased awareness of partner needs and the positive effect of trained partners on the communicative abilities of the person with aphasia. Predominantly small-scale studies describe the effectiveness of conversation partner training (CPT) and how partners perceive this training. The view of partners on this service commission remains largely unknown. Aims To explore the experiences of partners of people with aphasia with a CPT programme when it was newly introduced into rehabilitation settings. Methods & Procedures Seventeen partners of people with aphasia were interviewed using a semi-structured format about their experience with Partners of Aphasic Clients Conversation Training (PACT). Transcribed interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Outcomes & Results Four categories representative of the practical nature and individual tailoring of PACT were identified: engaging with PACT; learning from PACT; reflecting on behaviour and emotions; and experiences with earlier speech and language therapy (SLT). Two themes were identified cutting across all categories: the nature of communication is difficult to grasp; and balancing roles as partner, carer and client. Conclusions & Implications Partners appreciated the training programme once their initial lack of awareness of the interactive nature of communication had been addressed. SLTs need to be clear about the collaborative nature of conversations and what can be offered within the rehabilitation trajectory to address conversation alongside language training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background An evidence-practice gap has been identified in current acute aphasia management practice, with the provision of services to people with aphasia in the acute hospital widely considered in the literature to be inconsistent with best-practice recommendations. The reasons for this evidence-practice gap are unclear; however, speech pathologists practising in this setting have articulated a sense of dissonance regarding their limited service provision to this population. A clearer understanding of why this evidence-practice gap exists is essential in order to support and promote evidence-based approaches to the care of people with aphasia in acute care settings. Aims To provide an understanding of speech pathologists' conceptualization of evidence-based practice for acute post-stroke aphasia, and its implementation. Methods & Procedures This study adopted a phenomenological approach, underpinned by a social constructivist paradigm. In-depth interviews were conducted with 14 Australian speech pathologists, recruited using a purposive sampling technique. An inductive thematic analysis of the data was undertaken. Outcomes & Results A single, overarching theme emerged from the data. Speech pathologists demonstrated a sense of disempowerment as a result of their relationship with evidence-based practice for acute aphasia management. Three subthemes contributed to this theme. The first described a restricted conceptualization of evidence-based practice. The second revealed speech pathologists' strained relationships with the research literature. The third elucidated a sense of professional unease over their perceived inability to enact evidence-based clinical recommendations, despite their desire to do so. Conclusions & Implications Speech pathologists identified a current knowledge-practice gap in their management of aphasia in acute hospital settings. Speech pathologists place significant emphasis on the research evidence; however, their engagement with the research is limited, in part because it is perceived to lack clinical utility. A sense of professional dissonance arises from the conflict between a desire to provide best practice and the perceived barriers to implementing evidence-based recommendations clinically, resulting in evidence-based practice becoming a disempowering concept for some. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]