New aphasia support group starts up in Hemel
A new support group for people with the communication disability aphasia begins in Hemel Hempstead in February.
The first drop-in group, organised by the Say Aphasia charity, will start on 2 February, at 11am, at Woodhall Farm Community Centre, Arkley Road, Datchet Close, HP2 7JX.
The group will then run on the first Monday of every month from 11am-1pm.
At these support groups, people with aphasia can socialise with shared experiences and learn how to adapt to this life-changing condition, and re-engage with life.
Hollywood actor Bruce Willis was diagnosed with aphasia in 2022, which has raised awareness of the condition. Aphasia breaks down the ability to communicate, and destroys people’s connection with their family, friends and the outside world. Say Aphasia aims to help them to restore that connection.
Aphasia is a common but little-known communication disability, usually caused by stroke or brain injury. More people in the UK live with aphasia than Parkinson’s, MS (multiple sclerosis), and MND (motor neurone disease) combined. It can affect speech, understanding, reading, and writing, often alongside physical disabilities.
This profound disability suddenly disconnects people from family, work, and community, leading to loss of income, identity, and independence – causing long-term frustration, confusion, loneliness, and isolation. Despite unchanged intelligence, people with aphasia are frequently misunderstood, dismissed, and discriminated against. Once NHS support ends, many are left with lifelong, invisible challenges.
Say Aphasia runs 30 support groups across England and Wales. They support 450 people with aphasia thanks to the help of 81 volunteers. The charity aims to reduce the disadvantages and difficulties faced by the 350,000 people living with aphasia in the UK by offering safe, understanding spaces – both in person and online, where they can reconnect, thrive, and lead fulfilling lives. Plus its peer leaders and ambassadors gain purpose, confidence, and improved wellbeing, demonstrating that life with aphasia can be better.
More details about the group, accessibility, and community transport options are available at www.sayaphasia.org/hemel-hempstead.
To learn more about the Say Aphasia charity, visit www.sayaphasia.org.