In some parts of the UK, upwards of 50% of children are starting school with poor language skills. That could mean around 17 children in every classroom.

About the campaign

Hello, the 2011 national year of communication, is a campaign to increase understanding of how important it is for children and young people to develop good communication skills.

In the 21st century, the ability to communicate - to say what you want to say and to understand what other people are saying - is fundamental.

Speech, language and communication underpins everything we do in life. Babbling babies do not become talkative toddlers by chance. Communication is a skill that we learn and develop and is something we can all improve.

But did you know that in the UK today over 1 million children and young people have some form of speech, language and communication need? This is at least 2 or 3 children in every classroom - and that's the children we know about.

Difficulties with communicating can affect children and young people severely and for life. In areas of poverty, over 50% of children start school with delayed language skills. This puts them at a huge disadvantage to their peers as they struggle to learn and make friends.

Hello aims to make communication for all children and young people a priority in homes and schools across the UK so that they can live life to the full.

Hello 2011
Through this website you will find out about the monthly themes we have devised for the year, free resources to help support children's communication development and find out about events that are happening in your area.