Our latest estimate is that well over 400,000 people in the UK have Aphasia. This communication disability is caused by damage to the language centres of the brain. It can come as the result of a stroke, head injury, brain tumour or other neurological illness. It should be noted that intellect is rarely affected.

The medical term for this is Aphasia (or Dysphasia).

Speakability is the national charity dedicated to supporting and empowering people with Aphasia and their carers.

The charity was founded by Diana Law (who experienced Aphasia) in 1979 as ‘Action for Dysphasic Adults’ and adopted the working name of ‘Speakability’ in 2000.

Speakability offers impartial information and support through its Helpline, Website and training courses, and distributes its own Fact Sheets, low-cost publications and DVDs.

Throughout England, Scotland and Wales, Speakability is also developing a network of Aphasia Self-Help Groups – run by people with Aphasia for people with Aphasia. Each Self-Help Group offers individuals real empowerment, the chance to share experiences, grow in self-confidence, rebuild communication skills and make new friends in a supportive environment.

As the UK ‘voice’ of people with Aphasia, Speakability has a high profile campaigning role and works to improve services for people with Aphasia by influencing individuals, organisations and statutory bodies.