What’s it all about?

We have been generously funded by the The Nuffield Foundation (grants AT 251 [OD], DIR/28 and EDU 8366) and the Wellcome Trust (grant 060774).

The Manchester Language Study has been running nationwide since 1995 based at the University of Manchester. We have followed the progress of 242 children who were attending language units at 7 years of age. Since then, there have been several stages to the study when the children were 8, 11, 14, 16 and, most recently, 17 years of age. Their families and schools have been closely involved. A group of age-matched peers were also recruited into the study at the age of 16 years for comparison purposes.

Over the years we have looked at many different areas of the children’s lives. Alongside investigating the nature and course of their language difficulties we have also asked them questions about friendships, independence, depression and anxiety amongst other things. More recently we have looked at computer and mobile phone use and also academic achievement and post-16 education/employment.

Our research has contributed to a growing body of literature suggesting that, contrary to earlier thinking, some children with specific language impairment (SLI) may have persistent problems lasting well into early adulthood. The project also has direct involvement with the DfES, helping to inform policy decisions to ensure that children and young people are able to access the curriculum and other services they may need. We have also formed part of an UK-wide consortium investigating the genetics of speech and language difficulties.

Gina Conti-Ramsden is the Principal Investigator at The University of Manchester.