Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Preston)
Alison is a Speech & Language Therapist with over 20 years’ experience supporting adults with acquired communication difficulties. After nearly two decades in the NHS, she became a clinical lecturer before moving into independent practice in 2023, alongside work in the charity sector. She is passionate about understanding the impact of aphasia on individuals and their families, taking a holistic approach that helps people build confidence and reach their communication potential. Alison has led groups for people with aphasia, creating supportive spaces that encourage connection and meaningful conversation. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, practising yoga, and cooking.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Bradford & Harrogate)
Rhona is a Speech & Language Therapist who recently moved to Yorkshire with her husband. She brings extensive experience working with people with aphasia and their families in both the NHS and the charity sector. She previously worked for Dyscover in Surrey and now leads the Harrogate and Bradford Aphasia Café's, creating a welcoming environment for both clients and volunteers. Rhona is passionate about building relationships and understanding the individual needs of each person she supports. Outside of work, she enjoys music, hopes to join a choir, and loves walking and cycling with her family through the beautiful Dales.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Blackburn)

Naomi is a Speech & Language Therapist with over 30 years’ experience working with adults with acquired communication difficulties. She spent 21 years in the NHS across stroke and neurorehabilitation services in the North West before moving into independent practice in 2016. Naomi is passionate about supporting people with aphasia and their families to manage the long-term impact of communication difficulties. She particularly enjoys running groups, helping people regain confidence, develop their skills, and connect with others in meaningful ways. Outside of work, Naomi enjoys running, hill walking with her Labrador, and watching cricket.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Leeds, Wakefield & York)
Karen is a Speech & Language Therapist with 25 years of experience across hospital, community, and university settings in Leeds and Wakefield. She is dedicated to helping people with aphasia move forward with their lives, regaining confidence in communication. Karen values getting to know each person she works with - providing tailored, compassionate support. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, practicing yoga, doing crafts and pottery, and supporting local environmental initiatives.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Barnsley)
Emilie has nearly 25 years of experience as a Speech & Language Therapist working in the NHS. In 2014, she helped establish our charity's first Aphasia Café in Barnsley, and is passionate about creating welcoming spaces where people with aphasia and their families can connect, share, and support one another. Emilie values every relationships she builds, and the strong sense of community spirit reflected in her role as Session Leader. Outside of work, she enjoys baking bread, cycling, and exploring the outdoors!

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Calderdale)
Hannah joined Aphasia Support after graduating in Speech and Language Therapy from the University of Sheffield. During her training, she gained valuable experience working with people with aphasia in the community and at the university’s Aphasia Café - this is where she developed a strong passion for supporting people to overcome communication barriers. She is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment in her role. Outside of work, Hannah enjoys walks in the Peak District, playing the piano, and greeting every dog she meets.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Doncaster)
Jen has been working as a Speech & Language Therapist since 2007, in Rotherham, Sheffield, and New Zealand across a range of settings. She is passionate about supporting people with aphasia to enjoy meaningful conversations and particularly values the connections built within groups. Jen enjoys learning about people’s lives and interests, always welcoming recommendations for TV shows, recipes, and local days out. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor swimming, taking her children on day trips, and helping to run a church youth group.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Kirklees)
With her background as a volunteer for Aphasia Support, Alex brings a wealth of experience to her role as Session Leader. She previously lived in France for over a decade, working as an editor and running English conversation groups - experiences she brings to her work connecting with people and fostering communication. Alex is passionate about creating welcoming spaces for clients and volunteers alike. Outside of work, she enjoys musicals, spending time with family and friends, and is challenging herself by learning German.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Nottingham)
Hazel is a Speech and Language Therapist with over 12 years of experience working with adults in community settings. She has always had an interest in the wellbeing of people living with long term aphasia and is passionate about forming collaborations to enhance service developments and evidence-based research. Hazel chairs the East Midlands Progressive Neuro CEN (EmProN), completed the Bronze Scholar Award (Lincoln University), worked on he NCEPOD national study into Parkinson’s dysphagia care, and has been involved in several projects with the RCSLT. Outside of work, Hazel enjoys writing and performing music and poetry, hiking and running.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Dronfield)
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.

Aphasia Cafe Session Leader (Scarborough & Northallerton)
Fran started volunteering with Aphasia Support while studying for her Master’s degree at Leeds Beckett University. She previously worked for three years as an NHS Speech & Language Therapy Assistant, supporting adults in a community setting, and is passionate about helping people overcome communication barriers, stay connected and feel confident. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, and occasionally dabbling in a little yoga.