Position Statement on Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)
Released October 17, 2025 – DLD Awareness Day
The European Speech and Language Therapy Association (ESLA) affirms its commitment to raising awareness of
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), a highly prevalent yet frequently misunderstood condition that affects and persists into adulthood. DLD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that significantly impacts communication, learning, mental health, and participation in society.
Despite its prevalence, DLD remains underecognised, under-diagnosed, and underesourced across Europe. This lack of awareness and appropriate support contributes to barriers in education, employment, and social inclusion.
As the professional voice of speech and language therapists across Europe, ESLA unites national associations and professionals to advance evidence-based practice, influence policy, and strengthen the profile of speech and language therapy at a European level. Our mission is to ensure that every person, regardless of age or background, has the right to optimal communication, swallowing, and language support.
In relation to DLD, ESLA and its member associations:
- Recognise DLD as a distinct and significant condition requiring early identification, intervention, and ongoing support throughout the lifespan.
- Advocate for equitable access to speech and language therapy services for all individuals with DLD, regardless of language background, socioeconomic status, or geographic location.
- Call upon policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers to prioritise investment in awareness, research, and service provision for DLD.
- Support multilingualism in Europe, urging that DLD assessment and intervention consider linguistic diversity and cultural contexts.
- Stand in solidarity with individuals and families affected by DLD, amplifying their voices and ensuring their rights to communication and participation are upheld.
To raise awareness, ESLA and its members will:
- Engage in collaborative campaigns with international partners, member associations, and advocacy groups.
- Share resources, facts, and stories across multiple platforms to highlight the realities of living with DLD.
- Promote training and knowledge exchange for speech and language therapists to strengthen identification and intervention across Europe.
- Encourage public conversations and media coverage to reduce stigma and build understanding.
On this DLD Awareness Day, ESLA and its member associations renew their commitment to promoting understanding of DLD, reducing stigma, and ensuring that every person with DLD receives the recognition and support they deserve.
Together, across Europe and within each of our countries, we can create a society where all individuals with DLD are empowered to thrive.
