Dronfield Aphasia Cafe

A welcoming support group in the heart of Dronfield for people with aphasia and their carers to connect and thrive.

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When & Where?

📅 Day: Friday

🕒 Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm

📍 Location: Gosforth Lodge Community Centre, Dronfield, S18 2XP

🔁 Frequency: Third Friday of the month

If you would like to attend our Aphasia Cafe for the first time, please click here to make a referral and wait to hear from a member of our team.

Session Leader

🗣️ Meet Helen
Helen is a Speech & Language Therapist with 27 years of experience. She founded Dronfield’s much-loved support group 13 years ago, known locally as Natterjacks. Now part of the Aphasia Support family, the thriving group is supported by trained staff and volunteers. Helen continues to lead the group and is passionate about helping people with communication difficulties join in and enjoy time together.

Accessibility

♿ This venue is wheelchair accessible, allowing smooth entry and movement throughout the space. On-site parking is available, including designated disabled bays located close to the entrance for convenience. Accessible toilets are provided; however, if a guest cannot use the facilities unaided, a carer or support person must be present.

🚕 Community transport options are available - please click here for more information.

Impact

🎥 Meet Jo, who regularly attends one of our charity's Aphasia Cafe's. In this special video, Jo openly shares her experience, and how, with the right support, life with aphasia can be full of hope and progress.   

❝It's such a fantastic help. It's the best thing. Friendships, love and support - that is how it is. When I first came, I couldn't say anything. This help has helped us - getting better and better and better. ❞ - Jo

▶️ Watch Jo's video

Aphasia Cafe FAQ's

What does a typical session look like?

A typical session starts with a warm welcome and a catch-up over tea, coffee, and biscuits. ☕

This is often followed by a group discussion where you might look at an aphasia-friendly round-up of recent news stories. 📰

We like to end each session with a fun activity, like a quiz, to encourage conversation and participation. 🧠

We tailor each session to needs of the group, ensuring we can provide you with as much support as possible. 💬

What kind of support will I receive?

When you join our Aphasia Cafe, you’ll receive a friendly welcome into a safe, understanding, and encouraging space. 💙

Experienced session leaders and trained volunteers will support you to engage in group discussions and tailored activities which will focus on speaking, reading, or writing in a fun and collaborative way. 🗣️📖✍️

You’ll also be supported by your peers who understand aphasia and encourage one another to communicate with confidence. 👥

Our Aphasia Cafe offers ongoing support, ensuring there's always a community ready to celebrate your achievements and help you work towards your goals. 🎉

How can I join my local group?

To join your local Aphasia Cafe, please complete our online referral form using the button below and wait to hear from a member of our team. 🌐

What will happen once I've been referred?

A member of our team will be in touch to get to know you and ensure we can offer you and your family the best possible support. 📞 ✉️

This might include a home visit from the group's session leader, who will share further details and answer any questions you may have. 🏠

Do I need to book in advance?

Once you’ve received your invitation to join our Aphasia Cafe, you’ll be given a list of upcoming dates for your diary. 📅

You're welcome to join our WhatsApp group, and we can send you an email reminder the day before each meet-up. 📱

The Aphasia Cafe is part of our charity's long-term support offer. You can join in at your own pace. There is no need to book in advance, and no pressure to attend every session.

Can I bring my carer or loved one?

Yes! You're always welcome to bring a carer or loved one. If you feel comfortable, your support person may use this time for a short break while you join the session. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

Please note, if you are unable to use the toilet unaided, your support person will need to stay for the duration of the session due to health and safety. 🚻

How much does it cost to attend?

As a registered charity, we are proud to offer our support free of charge thanks to the kind generosity of our wonderful community. 🆓

Make a referral Meet our community