Alfie’s Legacy: Giving Non-Verbal Children a Voice

In a heartfelt tribute to their son Alfie, Adam and Sophie Benee founded Chatty Boxx, a community initiative dedicated to supporting non-verbal children with complex communication needs. Alfie, who had cerebral palsy and epilepsy, faced significant challenges in expressing himself. However, with the aid of speech and language therapy and an AAC device, Alfie began to communicate more effectively, sharing jokes, expressing his needs, and engaging with his family in meaningful ways.

Tragically, Alfie passed away in March 2024. In his memory, Adam and Sophie decided to continue the work they had started for him, ensuring that other children like Alfie would have the opportunity to find their voices.

Chatty Boxx offers a monthly communication club where children can engage in various activities designed to promote communication and social interaction. Each session is supported by qualified speech and language therapists, providing a safe and inclusive environment for children to express themselves.

One family that has benefited from Chatty Boxx is Jacob and his mother Kirsten. Jacob, who has cerebral palsy, secondary dystonia, epilepsy, and visual impairment, found the club to be a unique space where he could interact with peers facing similar challenges. Kirsten expressed the importance of such a setting, stating that there is nothing else like it for children with Jacob's needs.

Another participant, Angus, uses eye gaze technology to communicate. His mother emphasised the need for people to understand that using a communication aid does not equate to a learning impairment. She encouraged others to engage with individuals using AAC devices as they would with anyone else, highlighting that the method of communication does not define the person's intelligence or personality.

Through Chatty Boxx, Adam and Sophie have created a lasting legacy for Alfie, providing a platform where non-verbal children can be heard, understood, and celebrated. Their commitment continues to inspire and support families across Essex, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to communicate in their own way.

If you'd like to support Chatty Boxx, whether through a donation, organising an event, or volunteering, please get in touch with us. Together, we can help more children find their voices.