In early 2025, watching Spellers shifted my perspective completely about non-speakers. Throughout much of my 30-year career, I’d accepted the narrative that non-speakers have learning disabilities. Even though, on numerous occasions, I caught glimpses of so much more going on, I didn’t fully presume competence and ultimately feel I let people down.
I was so moved by the documentary that I became determined to change how I approach my work with non-speakers and their families. I shared the film and began advocating for the presumption of competence for all non-speakers, minimal speakers, and unreliable speakers.
Within a short time, I enrolled to train as a certified Spellers Method Provider, motivated by the desire to offer as many people as possible the opportunity to communicate what they truly want to say and to spread the message of presuming competence for all non-speakers.
With 3 decades of experience as a qualified teacher, early intervention specialist, adult services manager and social care professional within a local authority, I bring a grounded, trauma-informed approach, clear structure and guidance, and the ability to see what’s getting in the way and how to move through it.
For over 30 years, my work has centred on supporting children and adults to reach their potential, and express who they truly are. Having access to reliable, robust communication that allows for authentic expression is the key to unlocking this.
Within my role as Spellers Method Provider, I am honoured to offer clear, grounded, and attuned support to non-speakers and their families for real communication to emerge. Through spelled communication, I help your family member express their intelligence and authenticity and pave the way for them to lead an autonomous life where they are in the driving seat.
Z. Yeates