New Signalong videos launched to support inclusive communication for children

25 June 2026

A new series of free ‘Signalong’ training videos has been launched to help support communication for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The videos, launched by North Northamptonshire’s SEND Information, Advice and Support Service (SEND IASS), are designed to help parents, carers, education professionals, and wider support networks, build confidence in using simple, practical signs in everyday situations. 

The series aims to make communication more accessible and inclusive for children and young people who may benefit from additional support.

A total of 18 videos will be released over the coming weeks, with new content published twice weekly through SEND IASS social media channels and hosted on YouTube for easy access and sharing.

The initiative was developed in response to feedback received by SEND IASS from families and professionals about the need for accessible communication tools and resources. The project also supports the Waiting Well programme within North Northamptonshire's Priority Action Plan following Ofsted inspections, helping children and young people who may be waiting for speech and language support.

Signalong is a keyword sign-supported communication system that uses speech, sign and gesture together to aid understanding and expression. As a universal communication tool, it can be used across home, school and community settings, helping to create more inclusive environments and improve communication opportunities for children and young people.

The benefits of Signalong are already being seen across North Northamptonshire; during a recent Truth from the Youth, SEND Youth Council session, a primary-aged pupil explained how using Signalong enabled them to discreetly ask for help during a school event without drawing attention to themselves.

These new Signalong training videos are a fantastic resource for families, schools and professionals across North Northamptonshire. Effective communication is at the heart of helping children and young people reach their full potential, and these videos provide simple, practical ways to support that every day. By making these resources freely available, SEND IASS is helping to promote inclusive communication and giving more people the confidence to use Signalong in their daily interactions. I would encourage anyone supporting a child or young person with additional needs to take advantage of this valuable training series.Cllr Elizabeth Wright, Executive Member for Children, Education and Families at North Northamptonshire Council.

The videos form part of SEND IASS's ongoing commitment to providing free, accessible and practical support for families and professionals. By offering easy-to-follow guidance that can be used in everyday situations, the service hopes to increase understanding of Signalong and encourage its use across communities throughout North Northamptonshire.

The Signalong video series can be viewed on the SEND IASS YouTube channel and via SEND IASS Facebook and Instagram.

Find out more about SEND IASS on its website.