Welsh Accents Restored: New Technology Giving Voice to People with Disabilities

Welsh citizens who have experienced speech impairments following incidents of brain injury or other medical conditions are now being afforded the chance to regain their distinct Welsh accents. An example is Shannon Folena, whose ability to speak with her original Welsh accent was compromised following a car accident at the age of 11. This incident resulted in a brain injury that not only impacted her mobility, but also resulted in an alteration of her distinct speech patterns. For the past decade, Shannon, now 21 and enrolled in college, has relied on a computerised speech program to communicate. Regrettably, this program has furnished her with an American male voice, which fails to accurately capture her true identity.

Similarly, Ella Rees, aged 19, who is afflicted by cerebral palsy, has also articulated her wish to speak with her native Welsh accent, as her present speech device has led her to speak with an English accent. Despite their personalities and facial expressions being indicative of their Welsh origins, their current speech technology does not adequately represent their true selves.

Fortunately, both Shannon and Ella will soon have access to bespoke Welsh voices, all thanks to the funding provided by the Welsh government. This endeavor, intended to endow individuals with a deeper sense of identity, will enable young people to select between north and south Wales accents for the first time. Moreover, the pre-recorded voices will enable users to communicate in both Welsh and English, taking into consideration the varied language requirements of the Welsh community.

Through this initiative, youngsters such as Lina from Hengoed, Caerphilly county, will soon have the opportunity to communicate with a bilingual voice that authentically represents their heritage. This new bilingual voice technology will not only enhance their communication abilities, but also allow them to fully integrate into Welsh-speaking communities, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Dr. Jeff Morris, of the National Centre for Electronic Assistive Technology in Wales, has underscored the significance of providing a wide range of individualised voices to meet the diverse needs of individuals with speech disabilities. While the existing funding will cater for eight new bilingual voices, there is an acknowledgment that further support is required to ensure that everyone has a voice that genuinely aligns with their identity.

Julie Morgan, Wales’ deputy minister for social services, has expressed her delight at the introduction of Welsh language and Welsh accented voices. She has emphasized that individuals using speech technology should have the option to mimic the voices of their friends and peers, thereby fostering a stronger sense of Welsh identity and community spirit.

This groundbreaking initiative not only offers individuals like Shannon, Ella, and Lina the ability to reconnect with their Welsh heritage, but also serves as a testament to the inclusive and progressive values of the Welsh government. It signifies a step towards providing equal opportunities for individuals with speech disabilities, enabling them to express themselves authentically and with pride.