Chair of Trustees

I have been involved with a number of charities over the past few years and my involvement is about giving back. I am passionate about the sector which has such an impact in people’s lives. In my other world, I am Head of Marketing and Business Development at The Commerce Team Global which is in the technology sector. I am also part way through a professional doctorate!

I’m Caroline, a Speech and Language Therapist, and I’ve had a long career working with people with Aphasia and their families. I’ve been working at the University of Sheffield since 2020 teaching the next generation of Speech and Language Therapists, a role I really enjoy.

In my previous role, I was the clinical lead Speech and Language Therapist for the Stroke team at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, where I developed a great enthusiasm for working collaboratively with people with aphasia and their families. My PhD research explored accessible information for people with Aphasia, and I’m proud to be a co-author of the Stroke Association’s Accessible Information Guidelines. I’ve worked alongside Aphasia Support as a clinician and a university teacher, and now I’m delighted to join the board of trustees for this important charity.

My name is Judy and I am a carer for my husband who had a major stroke in 2014 which left him with severe communication difficulties. We were made aware of Aphasia Support in 2015 and since then have been supported by several wonderful volunteers. Following my retirement from a career in nursing and childcare we now attend the Leeds Aphasia café .
I feel honoured to serve as a trustee of this vital charity. I hope to support other carers in their 24/7 communication challenges. I am also interested in the influence of music in improving outcomes in communication.

I’m Peter and I am a Trustee for Aphasia Support. A former journalist (based in Yorkshire), now a Public Affairs consultant, I have been lucky to work for a range of private, public and third sector organisations in the UK and overseas on their communication challenges– including a large health and social care charity, supporting people with mental health issues and learning disabilities. I’m delighted to have joined Aphasia Support and am looking forward to using my strategic communications expertise and stakeholder engagement experience to advance its aims.

Qualified as a Solicitor in 1976 and was a Partner until retirement in 2011. Specialised in commercial law and was Managing Partner for 5 years. Served on various Boards and Charities over many years. Retired after 24 years as Trustee of Lamproom Theatre in Barnsley following a stroke in March 2020. The Stroke caused my Aphasia and though I have recovered fairly well I am enjoying a new challenge.

I’m a Trustee of Aphasia Support. I first became involved with this fantastic charity as a volunteer. I have always been interested in supporting people with any sort of communication problem. I am a Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist working in the Kirklees area, mainly in schools.

I am Michelle, a Trustee, Treasurer and Volunteer for Speak With IT almost since it began! I had a Stroke in 2009 which left me with aphasia and forced me to retire. I joined Speak With IT about 12 years ago as a Volunteer and Trustee and completed over a 100 visits to clients, ran promotional stands & their accounts. Speak With IT helped my recovery, I wouldn’t be where I am today without having volunteered for Speak With IT, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Speakablity and The Stroke Association.

With over two decades of experience in data capture and document management, I am dedicated to enhancing workplace engagement and success. In 2021, I had a stroke with Aphasia due to chronic stress, which strengthened my commitment to transforming businesses and inspiring people. My daughter has taken a leadership role in NWEEG and Anthem Engagement, and together, we are redefining engagement strategies.

Since February 2025, I am proud to serve as a Board Trustee for Aphasia Support, a charity focused on improving the quality of life for individuals with Aphasia in Lancashire and Yorkshire.