Adult Speech and Language Therapy Team in Lothian

That the Parliament recognises what it considers to be the impactful work of the Adult Speech and Language Therapy team in Lothian, which includes the Home First scheme to support individuals to remain healthy and to help reduce hospital admissions; considers that services such as Home First can result in significant savings for the NHS; understands that a high proportion, up to 80%, of those hospitalised for mental health issues will have a communication need; notes with concern that some people with a communication need may not be able to access mental health treatments, such as talking therapies, if their communication needs are not supported; recognises the expertise of speech and language therapists in supporting communication needs; highlights the reported significant impact of communication and swallowing difficulties on various aspects of life, including employment, mental health, relationships, leisure, and access to healthcare services; acknowledges what it regards as the importance of inclusive communication training for professionals in all sectors, such as the free Communication Access Training that is provided by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists; understands that nearly 20% of the population experience communication difficulties at some point in their lives, and commends the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists for its work in promoting and supporting speech and language therapists across the UK.