Talking Mats
Talking Mats is an award-winning visual communication framework that helps people express their views, preferences, and experiences. Developed by Speech and Language Therapists and supported by extensive research, it is used across health, social care, education, and community settings to support meaningful conversations and person-centred practice.
The approach uses a simple system of picture symbols and a visual scale to help people organise their thoughts and communicate what matters to them.
About Talking Mats
Talking Mats supports people who may experience communication difficulties, including those living with dementia, learning disabilities, acquired brain injuries, autism, mental health conditions, and other communication needs.
The framework aims to empower people to:
- Express their views and preferences
- Take part in decisions that affect them
- Reflect on their experiences
- Communicate thoughts and feelings more clearly
- Have greater influence over their own lives
At its heart, Talking Mats is about ensuring that people's voices are heard and that conversations are genuinely person-centred.
Why Use Talking Mats?
Talking Mats can help practitioners, carers, and support staff to:
- Improve communication and engagement
- Support person-centred planning
- Explore outcomes and goals
- Gather meaningful feedback
- Facilitate assessments and reviews
- Support shared decision making
- Better understand the experiences of individuals using services
The visual nature of the framework can make conversations more accessible and inclusive, particularly when discussing complex topics.
Learning More About Talking Mats
The official Talking Mats website provides information about the framework, research, training opportunities, case studies, and downloadable resources.
You can also explore examples of how Talking Mats is being used across:
- Health services
- Social work
- Education
- Care services
- Community organisations
- Person-centred planning and reviews
Research and Evidence
Talking Mats is underpinned by a strong evidence base and has been developed through ongoing research and practical application.
Research has shown that the approach can help improve communication, increase participation, and enable people to share views that may otherwise be difficult to express. Their website is full of information about Talking Mats and how effective, innovative and valuable they are.
Further Resources
You may also find these resources helpful: