Our groups
We currently run 6 support groups across our two venues and are piloting a 7th next term. Members participate in a variety of activities designed to maximise their communication abilities and build the confidence to communicate in a group environment. All sessions involve some whole and some break-out group work, and are facilitated by teams of Speech and Language Therapists, support staff and trained volunteers.
Members are consulted with, and actively encouraged to help design each term’s programme, which typically includes discussion topics, projects, practical group activities and presentations.
Different programmes for different needs
At Dyscover we understand that living with aphasia is a long term challenge. Experience has taught us that the needs of people with aphasia and their families change over time, and that when provided with the right sort of support they can continue to make progress – in terms of adjustment, confidence, and communicative success – over many years.
We have designed the following three distinct types of programme in order to meet these different levels of need.
Learning to Live with Aphasia
‘Learning to Live with Aphasia’ helps people who have recently acquired aphasia. It helps them to adjust to, and live with their disability. We offer a high level of emotional and family support and provide a structured programme with individual goal plans.
Moving on
‘Moving on’ groups suit people who are successfully using a range of communication skills and have made a good psychosocial adjustment. Activities are more member led ; there is more emphasis on self-support and providing greater challenges and responsibility in order to promote independence.
Short Courses
Couples course for people with PPA
Couples are helped to manage this progressive condition through a 6 week course, which offers information, peer support and functional conversation strategies. Courses are led by two Speech and Language therapists and include the option of monthly follow up group meetings. Click here to see details of our next course.
Conversation Partners’ course
Aphasia has a huge impact on conversation and relationships. Our couples course, led by Speech and Language Therapists brings together four to six couples to learn about aphasia, and how it affects their conversation. Video feedback and practical conversation tasks help couples to enjoy greater success and reduce frustration.
Courses are run according to need and funding. Click here to see details of our next course.
All groups are led or overseen by Speech and Language therapists, and each has its own distinct character. A variety of factors help determine the most suitable programme for each individual, and members may move from one group to another as their needs change. Members decide for themselves if and when they want to leave Dyscover – many continue their association with us for many years.
Ambassadors Caroline and Andy recently shared with the founders of our next ‘Conversation Partners’ course, details and its impact. Watch the Stonegate Foundation’s short interview with them below
