The HKCNDP Working Party for Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC WP) was formed in 2007, comprising a group of medical, allied health and engineering professionals, who see the need for promoting the ability of children and individuals with disabilities in Hong Kong to communicate effectively despite their physiological challenges. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems include an integrated group of components, including the symbols, aids, strategies and techniques used by individuals to enhance communication. The aim is to help children and adults with physical, sensory, intellectual and social disabilities to express themselves, learn and participate in leisure, play and work communicate effectively through measures tailored to their needs. This is an emerging subject in Hong Kong, and the group feels that more focused work is necessary to bring it forward more effectively and efficiently in the coming years.

The Vision the AAC WG, is to promote communication of people with complex communication needs, with the Missions to

1. Providing a platform for sharing of AAC knowledge and experience

2. Advocating for better AAC service in Hong Kong

3. Conducting research related to AAC

4. Providing and promoting continuous training and education opportunities to the people interested in AAC, and

5. Serving the AAC community, including AAC users and AAC practitioners including professionals and parents

A blueprint was set up for the AAC WG's work, with the following goals

Subgroups have been formed to respectively address AAC needs of

1. Preschool children with disabilities

2. Individuals with low communication abilities, including severe intellectual disabilities

3. Individuals with high communication abilities, including those with severe physical impairment and requiring high technology in their AAC support

Specific concern is placed on transition processes between age groups (preschool, school age and adult placements), and across settings (home, school and the community).

Members include:
Dr. Catherine Lam(Co-Convener), Ms Elaine Siu (Co-Convener), Ms. Jonas Au, Ms Mandy Chui, Ms. Mabel Ho, , Ms. Emily Lam, Ms Lorinda Lam, Ms Joyce Leung, Ms. Cecilia Ng, Ms. Dorene Sin, Dr. Eric Tam, Dr. Philomena Tse, Ms. Anita Fong, Dr. Wong Lai Yin, Ms. Louisa Wong, Dr. CP Chow, Ms Beverley Yiu and Ms. YM Yuen.

Details of the AAC Working Group can be found at its website: www.hongkongaac.org