Communication Works North 2026: A Celebration of Innovation, Collaboration and Communication

On Friday 22^nd May, Communication Works North 2026 brought together professionals, families and organisations from across the UK for another inspiring and impactful event focused on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and assistive technology (AT). This year’s event was the first to be held at Oldham Events Centre at the grounds of Oldham Athletic FC and proved to be our biggest year yet, with 200 attendees participating on the day.

Building on the success of previous years, this year’s event delivered one of our most ambitious programmes to date. Communication Works has always been designed to create an inclusive and collaborative environment, and 2026 was no exception. Attendees from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, SENDCos, support staff and carers, came together with a shared focus: improving communication outcomes for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities.

Throughout the day, the seminar programme provided a rich and engaging series of presentations that reflected both the challenges and opportunities within the sector. Sessions explored real-world case studies, practical strategies and research developments, offering valuable insight into how AAC and AT can be effectively implemented across different settings. The focus remained firmly on translating knowledge into practice, ensuring that attendees left with ideas and approaches they could apply immediately in their own work.

A highlight of the day was the keynote address from Carly Hynes, known widely through her platform AACtivities with Carly. Drawing on her extensive experience supporting learners with complex communication needs, Carly shared powerful reflections on the importance of high-quality modelling and the role of confident communication partners from her experience at Sandfield Park School. Her session emphasised how consistent, meaningful support can empower individuals to become more independent communicators, reinforcing a message that resonated strongly throughout the event.

The seminar programme was structured around three complementary strands, offering a balanced and engaging experience for delegates. The AAC strand focused on communication in practice, exploring how communication resources can be embedded across learning environments to support expression and inclusion. The AT strand highlighted tools, systems and strategic approaches that enable access, independence and participation for learners with a wide range of needs. Alongside these, the Workshop strand provided hands-on, practical opportunities to explore equipment, techniques and activities, allowing participants to deepen their understanding through interactive experience.

Alongside the seminar programme, the exhibition space offered attendees the opportunity to engage directly with a wide range of suppliers and organisations. The breadth of exhibitors in 2026 reflected the diversity and innovation within the sector. We were pleased to welcome back organisations such as Tobii Dynavox, Widgit Software, Inclusive Technology and TechEdology, as well as introduce new exhibitors like Postive Eye, VisionAid, Calibre Audio and OM Interactive, offering attendees a comprehensive overview of available technologies and services. The exhibition remains a cornerstone of Communication Works, allowing visitors to explore and interact with the latest assistive technologies, communication tools and resources. From established providers to emerging innovators, exhibitors showcased solutions designed to support communication across education, therapy and home environments, giving attendees valuable hands-on experience with the tools shaping the future of AAC and AT.

Across both the seminars and exhibition, several key themes emerged. Collaboration remained central, with the event highlighting the importance of bringing together different perspectives to improve outcomes for individuals with communication needs. There was also a clear focus on practical implementation, moving beyond theory and ensuring that strategies are accessible, sustainable and effective in real-world contexts. Innovation in assistive technology was evident throughout, with new developments continuing to expand opportunities for accessibility and independence. Underpinning all of this was a strong commitment to person-centred approaches, ensuring that technology and support are tailored to the unique needs of each individual.

Communication Works 2026 once again demonstrated the strength and passion of the AAC and AT community. Thank you to everyone who played a part in bringing this event to fruition, we’ll see you in 2027!

Top from left: Attendees preparing to hear the keynote addresses at the start of the day, Carly Hynes delivering her keynote speech, Fil McIntyre from Natspec presenting his seminar.

Middle from left: Reeza Awoodun from TechEdology speaking with delegates, Ace Centre CEO Bob Birchall opening the day, Kezia Hesketh from Ace Centre running a workshop.

Bottom: Exhibitors setting up in the main hall.