A NEW charity-run cafe for people with hidden communication difficulties is set to open in Rugby.
The Aphasia Cafe, which is set to launch this spring, will aim to offer a supportive and welcoming space for local residents affected by communication difficulties.
Delivered by the charity Aphasia Support, the initiative supports locals living with aphasia – an invisible disability caused by damage to the brain.
Aphasia affects a person’s ability to speak, read, write, and communicate with the world around them – often as a result of a stroke – and can have a profound impact on everyday life.
The charity’s newest group in Rugby has been championed by local residents to help fill a much-needed gap in support for people with aphasia and their families in the area.
They include Rugby resident Catherine Cope, who said: “Jim Buckby, my incredible dad, was living with aphasia when he died.
“Aside from all the other complications and hurdles following a stroke, losing your ability to speak is huge. It’s frightening, frustrating and very cruel. My dad had no support. It was a difficult time.
“That’s why I’m passionate about bringing Aphasia Support to Warwickshire – creating a space where people can come together, share their experiences and feel less alone.”
Last year, Catherine embarked on an epic sponsored swimming challenge, raising over £2,000 to help fund the service in loving memory of her dad.
Since then, the charity has been working with a group of local residents to shape its support.
Over 430 people are estimated to be living with aphasia in the Rugby area.
James Major, CEO of Aphasia Support, said: “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support we have received from the local community.
“Our new Rugby Aphasia Cafe is a much-needed space where people affected by aphasia can feel understood, supported, and connected. Thanks to the dedication of local champions and valuable input from residents, we are proud to be launching a new service which offers long-term support in the heart of the community.”
Sessions will be led by a qualified Speech and Language Therapist and supported by fully trained volunteers.
The group will offer tailored communication support, conversation practice, and opportunities to build confidence.
Paul, who attends an existing group, said: “By yourself, first of all you are lost, you are not who you were, everything takes such a long time.
“The group has lifted up all parts of my life and helped me move forward after my stroke. Everyone made a massive difference. It’s helped me feel 100 per cent better – more independent and confident.”
Anyone living with aphasia is invited to attend Aphasia Support’s information event at Willoughby Village Hall at 1pm on Wednesday (March 4). Call 0300 102 3500 or [email protected] to register for the free event by Monday (March 2).
