This recognition is a major milestone for us as we work to transform how families experience Speech, Language & Communication Needs (SLCN) pathways in the UK.
Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) affects around 1 in 10 children in the UK, that’s approximately 1.9 million young people. For many, support comes only after long waits. Families can be left waiting more than 45 weeks on average before therapy begins. During this time, children miss out on crucial opportunities for early intervention, while parents and caregivers face stress, uncertainty, and a lack of guidance. NHS clinicians, meanwhile, are managing heavy caseloads and rising demand.
SuperPenguin is designed to bridge this gap. With the Innovate UK funding, we will expand our “Waiting Well” modules, giving families evidence-based tools and activities while they wait for therapy. We are also pioneering self-managed early diagnostics, using cutting-edge speech-detection algorithms to identify needs sooner. And by integrating with NHS services, we aim to streamline clinician workflows, reduce pressure on staff, and cut travel-related emissions.
When children with SLCN receive support earlier, their outcomes improve, not only in terms of communication skills but also in confidence and wellbeing. Parents feel more capable of supporting their children, and clinicians can dedicate more time to those with the most complex needs.
By rethinking how speech and language support is delivered, SuperPenguin aims to make early intervention the norm rather than the exception.
We are deeply grateful to Innovate UK for recognising the potential of SuperPenguin and supporting our mission. Over the coming months, we will be working closely with clinicians, commissioners, researchers, and families to co-create a system that truly meets the needs of those it serves. If you are passionate about supporting children with Speech, Language and Communication Needs, whether as a professional, researcher or caregiver, we would love to connect with you. Please get in touch!