Between 25 and 50 people meet fortnightly at the Salvation Army hall. New members arrive having lost confidence, friends, and even jobs as a result of their speech difficulties. In addition, they can feel self conscious in front of strangers, especially if they will struggle to make themselves understood.

Speakability is a very popular self-help group for people whose language has suffered as a result of having a stroke. It also offer support for their partners who can become overwhelmed with how difficult everyday life has become

The other people in Speakability will know exactly what they are going through and can offer practical advice, as well as unjudging friendship. The group lives hand-to-mouth and is in urgent need of funding. One member said to us: "I simply don't know what I'd have done without this club - it's been a lifeline."