We love it when our members suggest topic ideas but it’s really fantastic when they also take the initiative to make them happen! Last week Thursday morning member Nick created a fantastic quiz for his group which not only showed off the breadth of his own general knowledge but also generated lots of discussion, rivalry and fun in the session! It was lovely to see all the members joining in and debating whether a potato is a vegetable and working together to reach a consensus on team answers.
By coincidence our AGM always times well with this awareness raising week. Our Trustee Board are extremely ‘hands on’, they are all volunteers, and all bring a different skill set. Our Members are very familiar with many of them, they are a huge support to Alice and the team and all have individual responsibilities which cover different areas of running a charity.
Last weeks AGM was a good opportunity to look back at the past year and reflect on all the achievements. Times are very challenging for this sector but knowing and trusting that you have a good solid team is an enormous support and something everyone can put their trust in. Thank You!
What a team! – just sharing a screenshot from our latest Speech and Language Therapists meeting. The complete team! Welcoming our new Service Manager and Lead SLT Julie Samuel, was Rhona Palmer our Advanced SLT and temporary Service Manager, Rosemary Townsend our Principal SLT for PPA services, Maggie Stapleton and Lin Cockayne our group Speech and Language therapists and Barbara Greenwood our online facilitator Speech and Language therapist. #aphasia #PPA
Our most recently recruited volunteers working with face-to-face groups took part in Aphasia Awareness Training, led by Speech & Language Therapist Maggie Stapleton at our Leatherhead office in September 2023. Having learned more about aphasia and the impact it can have on people’s lives, the volunteers had conversations with some of our members. We are grateful to our Aphasia Ambassadors, Jenni, Nial and Bryan for assisting with this practical aspect of the training.
Where space allows we welcome external participants and students to these sessions. Please contact us for further information on these workshops.
We spiced up the session for our Thursday morning members with a Guess the Spice activity. Members sniffed a selection of spices and herbs, using labels to help name them and photo resources to help describe how they are used. This fun and inclusive activity generated some interesting conversations around cooking and food preferences.
Gymnastics returned last month, and the Members took no time in setting themselves fairly impressive challenges supported by the brilliant team at Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club. It takes a certain amount of courage and self-belief to overcome physical barriers and reduced confidence brought about by stroke. However, the team carefully design apparatus and equipment each week aimed at encouraging the Members to push forward with something new each time.
The Dyscover Golfers returned to Betchworth Park last month under the coaching of Disability Golf Pro Karl Spurrier. We have worked with Karl for over 6 years and his understanding of aphasia and expertise in coaching players with physical disabilities enables members of all abilities to participate. Our Golfers are also supported every week by Dyscover volunteers who also have a passion for the game. Barry, ex-member, now group Volunteer and Trustee provides ongoing guidance and runs the additional practice sessions.
