How to buy the VA 601i Fluency Enhancer Device

Therapists

VoiceAmp has trained over a 500 Therapists the world over, many centres have demo devices and calibration software. VoiceAmp has worked closely with the Speech Therapy Community and we recommend that clients seek professional advice when evaluating any assistive device, as fluency devices do not work for everyone, We do not recommend devices for young children (eight years and below). We acknowledge that some clients may not have access to a Therapist, or may simply wish to try these devices for themselves, in their own environment.

Free Tools

VoiceAmp have created many tools that allow anyone to evaluate a device. Self assessment programs have been developed to offer everyone a chance to try a device, often at no cost. We offer unlimited remote support via email & Skype. VoiceAmp prides itself on being able to create custom settings for each individual and e-mail these to anywhere in the world. We have sustained success in special needs areas like Autism & Dysfluency. We will provide custom settings free of charge for special needs.

Over 90% of stutterers who have tried our device have found it to be beneficial in improving their quality of life and significantly enhancing fluency. The VoiceAmp device also offers true flexibility in adjusting the settings for individual needs and environments.

Ultimately the only real way of knowing exactly how this device will work for you, is to try it.   A unit can be purchased and tested for 10 days and if you are not entirely happy, we will refund you*.

The VA601i & Econo Fluency system can be purchased online here.

Try before you buy.

Student allowance granted for fluency device

Zaber Story

Disabled Students' Allowances may fund an electronic fluency device if you are in, or about to enter, higher education. Zaber Ahmed writes about obtaining the allowances for a VoiceAmp device. I had already been at university a couple of years when I heard out about the VoiceAmp device. I borrowed one on trial and found it a great aid. Having found out about Disabled Students' Allowances through the internet, I thought I would see if they would allow me to buy a VoiceAmp. My local authority told me I would need a letter from either a speech and language therapist or my GP to confirm my disability. I managed to contact a speech and language therapist I'd been seeing previously on the NHS, and she provided a detailed report of my speech impediment and also how it directly affects my studies e.g. taking part in group discussions I also contacted my university's disability officer to talk about my stammer and get advice. She gave me the Disabled Students' Allowances form - or alternatively you can download it from www.studentfinancedirect.co.uk. (see blue box). The local authority got back to me a couple of weeks after I submitted the form and therapist's letter, They agreed that I had a disability which affected my study, and asked me to book an appointment with one of their disability assessors. When we met, the assessor stressed that he was there to help me. I found him understanding and able to appreciate the points I made. The main emphasis was that I needed to explain why the device would be beneficial to me in educational terms. In my case the reasons were: - I can contribute in lectures and classes. - I can speak to the lecturer one-to-one - taking part in group discussions - making presentations - I can make new friends without being scared and allow these friends to benefit me educationally, e.g. by discussing coursework.. After the meeting the assessor sent me his report and asked if I agreed with it. (If you think the assessor can improve the report feel free to say this.). After all this my local authority contacted me saying that my application had been successful. The allowances granted will cover the wireless option of the VoiceAmp costing around £600 extra (though the cost varies depending on the earpiece), which I asked for because it allows me to feel more comfortable in front of people. They will also provide a computer to allow me to change the calibration of the device. My application was apparently the first in my local authority dealing with a stammer. However they considered my case and decided it was sound. My disability officer tells me that different local authorities have different practices as to what funding they give. I am so glad of the VoiceAmp and want to thank the incredible team, it's been a life transformation. For VoiceAmp and other electronic fluency aids, see www.stammering.org/adther_electronicaids.html Email: zaber1987@yahoo.co.uk

The British Stammering Association.

“Stammering is not simply a speech difficulty but is a serious communication problem. For the child or adult who stammers it can undermine their confidence and self-esteem, and affect their interactions with others as well as their education and employment prospects.  We welcome any innovation to help people who stammer to communicate better, including the VoiceAmp 601 device. Used with the right support and approach, it can benefit some people who stammer."

Dom Willis, Nurse Manager, Norfolk.

 “I have just done something that I have not done for a long time. I met an old friend in a noisy Public House and really enjoyed myself and relaxed. I was using the VoiceAmp 601. Both he and his wife were amazed. During the last few weeks I have trialed it whilst chairing staff meetings, attending Manager meetings, teaching students, appraising staff, using the telephone etc. I am very impressed with the on-going results.  I never anticipated VA to be a quick fix, but the support that it has given my work-based communication has been so appreciated. My self-esteem is smiling.”

* 10% handling fee applies