How to help make speech clearer

Before you speak:

• try to reduce any background noise, for example, turn the radio or television volume down
• think ahead about what you are going to say and try and keep it concise
• attract the attention of the listener, either by calling their name or touching them
• face the listener and check that they are watching you before you begin talking.

As you speak:

• try not to say too much on one breath, your voice fading away may be a sign that you need to pause and take in more air
• speak slowly, giving your lips and tongue extra time to go through the full range of movements
• exaggerate the words to make speech as clear as possible
• pause frequently to stop words running together and take extra breaths
• take care with long words and take it syllable by syllable. For example, the word ‘together’ is made up of three syllables; to – ge - ther. Make sure each part is said clearly.
• watch your listener to check that they understand. Encourage them to tell you if they are in difficulty understanding.

If your listener can’t follow:

• repeat the same message slowly and clearly, or just the part that wasn’t understood
• write it down or spell it out.