A café in Preston is supporting those affected by a life-changing communication disorder.
Preston Aphasia Café supports those in the city who have Aphasia, which is most commonly a result of a stroke.
The condition, which currently affects 617 people across Preston, affects a person’s ability to speak, understand language and read and write.
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Specialist charity Aphasia Support launched the café in January in collaboration with Heartbeat Cardiac Centre to provide a welcoming space where people can develop their skills.
The twice-monthly sessions are led by Speech and Language Therapist Alison McGrath and a team of trained volunteers.
Alison McGrath said: “Aphasia is often misunderstood, and people living with the condition can face stigma or assumptions about their abilities.
“People with aphasia have a lifetime of experiences, opinions and stories to share, but can struggle to express themselves.
“At the Preston Aphasia Café, we see just how much confidence grows when people are given the time, support and understanding they need to communicate in their own way and fully be themselves.”
To find out more, contact Aphasia Support by visiting the charity’s website.

