Aphasia Resources & Support

A guide to finding help, using technology, and connecting with others.

1. How to Find a Speech Therapist

There are two main ways to find a speech and language therapist in the UK:

The NHS (Free Service)

In most areas, you can refer yourself without a doctor. This is called “Self-Referral.”

• How to find them: Open your web browser (like Google).

• What to type: Search for “Speech and Language Therapy” followed by your Town or County.

• How to contact them: Most teams accept referrals by Email, Telephone, or Letter.

Private Therapy (Paid Service)

For private support, use the ASLTIP website. It is a national directory of independent experts.

• Verified: All therapists are qualified and registered.

• Easy Search: Search the database by your Postcode or Town.

• Visit the ASLTIP website: www.asltip.com

2. The “Aphasia-Friendly” Toolkit

Practical tools to help with daily communication.

• Communication Cards: Small cards to help you explain aphasia to shopkeepers or bus drivers. 👉 Get a Support Card (Say Aphasia)

• Visual Aids: Communication boards that use icons for basic needs. 👉 Download Communication Tools (Stroke Association)

• Digital Accessibility Guide: A “cheat sheet” for making your phone easier to use. 👉 Link to document attached.

3. Tech, AI & App Directory

Modern tools to help “give voice” back to survivors.

• Aphasia Software Finder: Compare different apps and software. 👉 www.aphasiasoftwarefinder.org

• Aphasia Therapy Finder: Find evidence-based therapy methods. 👉 Visit Therapy Finder

• Tavistock Trust for Aphasia: Information on research and grants. 👉 Visit Main Site

• App Recommendations: A list of helpful apps for your phone or tablet. 👉 View App List

• AI Innovations: Learn about Apple’s “Personal Voice” and Google’s “Project Relate.” 👉 link to document attached

4. Support for the “Communication Partner”

Resources for the family, friends, and carers who stand by the survivor.

Mindset & Communication

• Supported Conversation Tips: Simple rules like “The 10-Second Rule” and “One idea at a time.” 👉 link to document attached

• The Social Model of Disability: A guide to shifting focus from “fixing a defect” to “removing barriers.” 👉 link to document attached

Carer Respite & Local Support

• Carers Trust: Use their map to find a local “Sitting Service” or emotional support. 👉 Find your local Carers Trust

• Carers UK: A national charity with an expert advice line. 👉 Support where you live

• Regional Examples: * Carers Oxfordshire

  • York Carers Centre

• Stroke Association: Specific support for those caring for a stroke survivor.

  • Helpline: 0303 3033 100

  • 👉 Search Local Groups

5. What to do when Rehab Ends

Peer support and creative ways to process trauma.

Find Your Community

• Say Aphasia: National drop-in groups run by survivors. www.sayaphasia.org

• Aphasia Re-Connect: London-based peer-led conversation groups. www.aphasiareconnect.org

• Dyscover: Long-term support in Surrey and Kingston. www.dyscover.org.uk

Creative Therapy & Return to Work

• Creative Therapy Links: Explore Music Therapy and Art Therapy groups. 👉 link to document attached

• Advokit: An aphasia-friendly site to help apply for over 20 benefits, including PIP. 👉 www.advokit.uk

• Headway (PIP Guidance): Expert help for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) applications. 👉 Headway PIP Resources

6. Awareness Downloads

Help us spread the word and educate others.

• The “9 out of 10” Fact Sheet: A simple graphic showing that most people haven’t heard of aphasia. 👉 link to document attached

• Film Discussion Guide: For teachers and healthcare professionals screening On the Tip of My Tongue. 👉 link to discussion guide attached.

💡 Jonathan’s Final Thought

“Recovery doesn’t have a deadline. Whether it’s been two months or ten years, these resources are here to help you take the next step. You are not alone.”