Giving a voice to individuals with apraxia of speech
Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Acquired apraxia of speech
Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech Apraxia International
About Speech Apraxia International (including UK office)
Welcome to Speech Apraxia International (including Speech Apraxia UK)
.A global advocacy and support organisation for individuals with Acquired, Progressive, and Childhood Apraxia of Speech.
Services we offer-
Advice from a team of specialists
Showcase research and recruit participants
Parent/Carer +Professional networks
Research/CPD
Events/training
Newsletter
Therapy App reviews
Extensive resource gallery.
Speech Apraxia International is part of the Speech, Language and Communication Alliance
Our aim is to empower, inform, and support people with apraxia of speech. Thank you for joining our Speech Apraxia UK community
Ruth Rowntree MSc, BSc (Hons), DipHE, HCPC Reg, MRCSLT
Speech and Language Therapist
Founder of Speech Apraxia UK
Become a member of Speech Apraxia International
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Hear about events
Get the latest news
Join special interest groups including parent/carer, professional, researcher
Your membership enables us to
- Better understand our membership so we can offer appropriate support, activities, and events;
- Know how many of you have speech apraxia and/or are relatives or professionals
- It helps us to design the website and our social media coverage based on your needs, interests and geographical location
Use this link
Speech Apraxia UK registration form 2nd Ed. – Fill out form
.
FREE Global Virtual Conference (Min Donation £1)
Speech Apraxia and the Speech Process- Keynote Speaker Angela Morgan
Opening Address – Ruth Rowntree (Pepper) CEO Speech Apraxia UK
09.40-10.40 Professor Angela Morgan (Keynote speaker) Genetic basis for childhood apraxia of speech.
10.40-11.30 Dr Nicole Whitworth Acoustic vowel analysis in clinical contexts
11.45-12.30-Julia Chauvet-How speech practice affects motor planning and speech output
12.30-13.00 Lunch
13.00-13.50- Ricki Block- Childhood apraxia of speech- 50 years of practice in the USA
14.05-14.55-Therapy for speech apraxia in Jordan with Professor Omar Mustafa
14.55-15.45 The voice of minimally verbal children Dr Rosie Woods
15.45-16.00 Finishing address
. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983267561665?aff=oddtdtcreator
Events -FREE (Min Donation £1 via Eventbrite)
Primary Progressive apraxia of speech/acquired apraxia
Acquired/primary progressive apraxia CPD Events
Acquired Apraxia Of Speech and Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech CPD
Tue, May 19, 2026, 9:30 AM
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982635297546?aff=oddtdtcreator
Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Wed, May 6, 2026, 9:30 AM CPD event-Augmentative and Assistive Communication in speech apraxia
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983155933783?aff=oddtdtcreator
Tue, May 26, 2026, 9.30-16.30 CPD Motor Speech and Speech Apraxia -Conference
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983267561665?aff=oddtdtcreator
Coffee social
Speech Apraxia Research Meeting
Meet Ruth Rowntree and team members , chat about speech apraxia over coffee
Speech Apraxia Research Meeting
Global Speech Apraxia Professional Network
Speech Apraxia Research Meeting
Research events are open to all. We have some top researchers in the field talking about their research. Come and join the discussion whether you are interested in digging into the process of doing research or interested in the end results,
Speech Apraxia Researcher Group
Katherine Buckeridge and Isobel Chick discuss their research at this fascinating event.
24th April 09.30-11.30 Motor Speech Research Meeting – Open to All
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983997053595?aff=oddtdtcreator
Groups private events
Global Speech Apraxia Professional Network
Global Speech Apraxia Professional Network
These are a chance to put names to faces and chat without a formal agenda. Please only join if you are a WhatsApp group member
Global Speech Apraxia Professional Network
Global Speech Apraxia Professional Network
Global Speech Apraxia Professional Network
To join our Global Professional Speech Apraxia Network just the following
link.
https://buy.stripe.com/9B65kD6xLg07189b52dAk06
Why join
No need to use Eventbrite Joining links
Exclusive Events
All Speech Apraxia UK CPD events are accredited by Speech Apraxia UK, You can receive a certificate if you are a member of the Global Speech Apraxia Professionals Group,
Motor Speech Group Peer led supervision
Lived Experience talks, Conference presentations, Training Events
Lived Experience talks, Conference presentations, Training Events
Online, peer-led discussion space for Speech and Language Therapists working with speech apraxia. Sessions focus on shared clinical reasoning, differential diagnosis, ethical decision-making, and complex motor speech cases.
This is a reflective, non-hierarchical forum for SLTs to think together about real practice challenges.
🗓 Online
Book via Eventbrite
All Speech Apraxia UK events are by donation (minimum £1) to keep them accessible to all
Suitable for qualified SLTs with an interest in motor speech disorders.
Discover Motor Speech research with fantastic presenters and discussion
Tue, Feb 24, 2026, 1:00 PM
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981255585791?aff=oddtdtcreator
Lived Experience talks, Conference presentations, Training Events
Lived Experience talks, Conference presentations, Training Events
Lived Experience talks, Conference presentations, Training Events
Oxfordshire SEND parents/carers Group
SOAS University of London
UCLAN
Aprex Ability Conference
Saltroad SSD CPD group
New Zealand Speech Therapy Association
Apraxia Kids
To book an event fill request form
Training is FREE -Donation for larger events
All events
Lived Experience talks, Conference presentations, Training Events
All events
Mon, Mar 23, 2026, 9:30 -12.30 Rapid Syllable Transition Treatment CPD Event- Childhood Apraxia Of Speech
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983243906913?aff=oddtdtcreator
Speech Apraxia Researcher Group
Katherine Buckeridge and Isobel Chick discuss their research at this fascinating event.
24th April 09.30-11.30 Motor Speech Research Meeting – Open to All
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983997053595?aff=oddtdtcreator
💻 28th April 930am – 12.30 Childhood Apraxia of Speech CPD Event
Wed, May 6, 2026, 9:30 AM CPD event-Augmentative and Assistive Communication in speech apraxia
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983155933783?aff=oddtdtcreator
Tue, May 19, 2026, 9:30 -12.30 Acquired Apraxia Of Speech and Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech CPD Event
Tue, May 26, 2026, 9.30-16.30 CPD Motor Speech and Speech Apraxia -Conference
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1983267561665?aff=oddtdtcreator
Latest news
Film on Speech Apraxia UK!
We are having a film made about us by the amazing film producer Rae Wiltshire!
Speaking at Apraxia Kids conference!
Ruth Rowntree -CEO of Speech Apraxia UK has been invited to present at the Apraxia Kids Conference on Childhood Apraxia of Speech: How Much Knowledge and Experience do Clinicians Have and What it Means
To book your place visit National Conference - Apraxia Kids
Speech Apraxia UK Supports 'Invest in SLT compaign'
Speech Apraxia UK is one of over 50 organisations to support the Invest in SLT compaign c oordinated by the RCSLT and Mikey’s Wish Foundation) (founded by activist and campaigner, Mikey Akers). Invest in SLT campaign letter delivered to Downing Street | RCSLT Invest-in-SLT-Letter-to-PM_-22March26.pdf
Research opportunity
📣Research Opportunity - help us understand Dyspraxia/DCD📣 🧬Researchers at the University of Surrey are exploring the genetic influences on Dyspraxia/DCD, through the GROW-DCD (Genetic Research Of Walking and Developmental Coordination Disorder) study🧬
Who can take part?-
Anyone aged 18 or over with a diagnosis of DCD or who suspects they may have Dyspraxia/DCD
- Who lives in England, Wales or Northern Ireland
What does participating involve?
-Completing a short online questionnaire
- Providing a saliva sample from home using a kit sent to you
🎁As a thank you, you'll receive a £20 Amazon voucher once you've completed the study
🎁 To take part, use the QR code in the attached flyer or follow this link: http://bit.ly/3UdPNRZ
Any questions? Please contact Judith (j.gentle@surrey.ac.uk)#dyspraxia #DevelopmentalCoordinationDisorder #research
Petition-Create a National Strategy for CAS-Please sign
We want the Government to create and fund a National Strategy for CAS, which should include:
- Increase education of CAS.
- Set up and fund a working group of experts and families to advise Government.
- Create a strategy across health and education sectors, similar to autism and dyslexia.
Speech Apraxia UK is now part of the Speech, Language and Communication Alliance!
The Speech, Language and Communication Alliance has been formed to ensure that the UK Government, and national and local policymakers are focused on the issue of speech, language and communication, and the potential impact of these on all children and young people when developing or reviewing policy, legislation and services.
Speech and language therapist;Laura Cookson
"The Speech Apraxia UK website has been very helpful in providing advice and information quickly when I made a query. I have also heard from parents of children with CAS who have found some of the podcasts and signposting on the website useful and informative"
Speech Apraxia UK in the news! Worcester speech therapist Hazel Shaw recognised as expert
Speech Apraxia UK in the news, along with our fantastic volunteer Hazel Shaw writes “In August this year I was invited by fellow speech and language therapist Ruth Rowntree, founder of the new organisation Speech Apraxia UK, to become both a friend of Childhood Apraxia of Speech and their professional expert. I was delighted to accept and am now an active member of this organisation which works closely with experts, not only across the UK but also internationally, including colleagues in the USA and Canada.”
Meeting with RCSLT CEO Steve Jamieson to discuss our work
The RCSLT have a fantastic range of support and resources and it was a privilege to meet with CEO Steve Jamieson and talk about our organisation. www.rcslt.org
Liz Bedson -Winner of the Kings Award for Voluntary Services
Liz Bedson won this prestigious award for her work in which she set up the The Stroke Survivors Speech and Language Support Group, It is a fantastic achievement and one we are very proud of.
Social Impact Report 2025/6
Fantastic meeting with Elklan Training-Henrietta Mclachlan (director of Elklan and Ruth Rowntree)
Speech Apraxia Research Network-join with membership form
Fantastic meeting with Elklan Training-Henrietta Mclachlan (director of Elklan and Ruth Rowntree)
Fantastic meeting with Elklan Training-Henrietta Mclachlan (director of Elklan and Ruth Rowntree)
Fantastic meeting with Elklan Training-Henrietta Mclachlan (director of Elklan and Ruth Rowntree)
Fantastic meeting with Elklan Training-Henrietta Mclachlan (director of Elklan and Ruth Rowntree)
Fantastic meeting with Elklan Training-Henrietta Mclachlan (director of Elklan and Ruth Rowntree)
Capturing Moments, Speech Apraxia UK – Raising Awareness and Providing Support for Apraxia of Speech's Photo Gallery
Get Involved
Need advice or have a question?
Share research/recruit participants /product reviews
Training/lived experience talk (FREE *)
Our amazing team of SLTs/SLPs the ‘Friends of Speech Apraxia’ are here to help. They’ve generously offered their time and expertise to answer your questions. Use this form to reach out for information, support, and friendly advice https://forms.office.com/r/1T5mpuw5JS
Training/lived experience talk (FREE *)
Share research/recruit participants /product reviews
Training/lived experience talk (FREE *)
We can offer training or personal experience talks. These are FREE if online to a non-funded group. Otherwise there is a small charge to cover our running costs.https://forms.office.com/r/aJS92UAjFq
Share research/recruit participants /product reviews
Share research/recruit participants /product reviews
Share research/recruit participants /product reviews
Help to support our running costs.
Share research/recruit participants /product reviews
Currently Speech Apraxia UK is mainly unfunded. Most of our services are FREE. We provide extensive support, information, and awareness around Speech Apraxia. If you would like to contribute, it would really help. 'Buy us a coffee' with this link https://buymeacoffee.com/speechapraxia
Communication Matters Article
Communication Matters Article
Working with the New Zealand Speech Language Association to spread international awareness over speech apraxia.
Training, podcast and events
Podcast-Talking Speech Apraxia
Support for SLT/SLPs working with speech apraxia
Podcast-Talking Speech Apraxia
Listen to our NEW official podcast Talking Speech Apraxia, a heartfelt, insipiring show featuring a range of experts in speech apraxia, (Pictured is Alonna Bondar form Bondar Speech who did a fantastic podcast anwering your questions on treating speech apraxia)
Training/ press enquiries
Support for SLT/SLPs working with speech apraxia
Podcast-Talking Speech Apraxia
Support for SLT/SLPs working with speech apraxia
Support for SLT/SLPs working with speech apraxia
Support for SLT/SLPs working with speech apraxia
Extensive resources
Professional Networks
Training providers
Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech Quiz
Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech Quiz
Support for SLT/SLPs working with speech apraxia
https://forms.office.com/r/9SGYnivJav
Have a go and develop your knowledge
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Quiz
Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech Quiz
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Quiz
https://forms.office.com/r/cej9fNkMht
Quick check to see what you know
Acquired Apraxia of Speech Quiz
Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech Quiz
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Quiz
https://forms.office.com/r/UE6yQ64ZR1
Review your understanding
Parent /Carer Support Group
We have a busy parent and carer support group running. You are welcome to join, just complete our Speech Apraxia membership form above.
Our charity of the year
Every year we don't just keep our organisation going but believe in supporting others. Mikey's Wish Foundation is our charity of the year. Please do consider helping them with their important work.
Working with other organsiations
Working with other organsiations
We are keen to collaborate with other organisations doing excellent work in supporting individuals effected by speech apraxia such as the , Stroke Language and Communication Group and 1Voice.
What resources are available for you
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech (PPOS)
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
Alternative name-Developmental Verbal Dyspraxia. It is a label used for a specific type of speech sound disorder in which the planning and/or programming of the movements to produce speech is inefficient.
Acquired Apraxia of Speech (AOS)
Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech (PPOS)
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
Speech disorder, which is acquired after a stroke (or other neurological disorder) , It affects the ability to plan and coordinate the movements necessary for speech.
Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech (PPOS)
Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech (PPOS)
Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech (PPOS)
Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech is a neurological disorder that affects the ability to plan and coordinate the movements necessary for speech sounds, leading to significant communication difficulties over time
Nursery and school support
Studying, Financial Support, Law
Primary Progressive Apraxia Of Speech (PPOS)
SEND / EHCP guidelines + support
Bullying
Making school accessible
Reasonable Adjustments
Employment/Employers
Studying, Financial Support, Law
Studying, Financial Support, Law
Going to work or employing someone with speech apraxia, find information and support.
Studying, Financial Support, Law
Studying, Financial Support, Law
Studying, Financial Support, Law
Whether it is the law over discrimination, financial help, or support while studying, we have you covered.
Extensive support and resources
Information on related Conditions
Extensive support and resources
We have loads of support available
Resource Hub – Information & Support
Regular online meetings
Meet Others with Apraxia of Speech – Personal Stories & Support
Directory of helpful organsiations
Want to get more involved
Information on related Conditions
Extensive support and resources
Why not become a member of Speech Apraxia UK (FREE)
Book us to deliver (FREE*) training
Send us some research or an article
Take our online quizzes
Advertise with us
Have us impartially review your product for FREE
Information on related Conditions
Information on related Conditions
Information on related Conditions
Our website has extensive information and resources, from recommended books to the latest research. We have a whole section on related conditions.
Meet us
Ruth, Founder of Speech Apraxia International
I am the founder of Speech Apraxia International, a global organisation dedicated to advocacy, information, and support for individuals affected by all forms of speech apraxia, developmental, acquired, and primary progressive. What began as a personal mission has grown into a recognised voice for people with speech apraxia and the professionals who support them.
I was born with childhood apraxia of speech (developmental verbal dyspraxia). When I was two, my parents sought help for my lack of speech, a condition few had even heard of at the time. I spent five years in intensive therapy, three sessions a week with the same speech and language therapist. Those early experiences shaped both my resilience and my lifelong connection to speech and language therapy.
Apraxia is a lifelong neurological speech condition, and I consider myself fortunate to have received early, effective intervention. Yet, I repeatedly saw how little awareness existed, even within the profession itself. That gap drove me to create Speech Apraxia International. We are now a centre of knowledge, advocacy, and community. Our goal is to ensure no family or professional faces apraxia without access to accurate information and expert guidance.
Today, I am proud that Speech Apraxia International sits as a proud member of the Speech, Language and Communication Alliance (SLCA) alongside leading organisations such as Speech and Language UK, the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT), Afasic, The Communication Trust, I CAN, and the National Association of Head Teachers. Together, we influence policy, promote inclusive communication, and strengthen national awareness of speech and language needs.
Our reach is now global. We work with major international stakeholders, including the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’ Association, and collaborate with clinicians and researchers across continents to improve understanding of apraxia. Our website, speechapraxia.co.uk, and social media channels attract over 70,000 visits a month, offering free, evidence-based resources. We hold a varied events timetable, have several focused interest groups including our Global Professionals Speech Apraxia groups and parent/carers groups. Behind the scenes, a growing team of specialists responds daily to enquiries from families, professionals, and individuals seeking help.
From a single voice to a shared movement, Speech Apraxia International is proud to stand at the forefront of international collaboration, raising awareness and shaping a better future for everyone affected by speech apraxia.
Friends of Speech Apraxia
We have a fantastic group of volunteers who all share a passion for speech apraxia. They are what makes our organisation a success. Our community includes specialist clinicians, researchers, parents, and people with speech apraxia from as far afield as Australia, Italy, the USA, the UK, and the Netherlands.
Donna Thomas-Friend of Speech Apraxia -Rapid Syllable Transition (ReST) Therapy Expert -Austrailia
Donna is a speech-language pathologist, lecturer, researcher and clinical educator employed by The University of Sydney and is a researcher in Rapid Syllable Transition (ReST) therapy . Donna's research interests are speech pathology treatment for children with CAS and dysarthria, clinical education, and telehealth. Along with a team of international collaborators, Donna is conducting two randomised control trials of DTTC treatment for CAS. Donna is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, UK, and a Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist with Speech Pathology Australia. She regularly presents at conferences and workshops both nationally and internationally.
Heather, (Hetty) Clark- Friend of Speech Apraxia (CAS, AOS, PPAOS expert)-USA
Dr. Hetty Clark is Professor of Speech Pathology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She is board-certified by the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences and is a Fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Her clinical work includes differential diagnosis of motor speech disorders in children and adults. She and her fellow speech-language pathologists team with specialists in neurology, genetics, otolaryngology, developmental and behavioral pediatrics to assess and treat children with childhood apraxia of speech. She has particular expertise in the treatment of severe CAS using Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing, a therapy approach developed at the Mayo Clinic. Her work with apraxia of speech extends across the lifespan and includes differential diagnosis of apraxia of speech in neurodegenerative conditions. Her clinical and research teams include specialists from behavioral neurology, movement disorders, neuropsychology, neuroimaging, physiatry, and palliative care.
Helen Stringer -Friend of Speech Apraxia—Childhood Apraxia of Speech Expert
Helen is the lead author for the RCSLT Childhood Apraxia of Speech (2024) Postion Paper
Pam Williams -(Friends of Speech Apraxia-Speech and Language Expert, Childhood Apraxia of Speech specialist)-UK
Lecturer and lead author of the Nuffield Dyspraxia Programme (NDP- 3rd edition).
Pam was Consultant SLT and lead clinician for the dyspraxia service at the Nuffield Hearing and Speech Centre, (now known as the Paediatric Speech Clinic at UCLH), for many years. She was involved in the creation of the original Nuffield Dyspraxia Programme, and is first author of the current 3rd edition www.ndp3.org. Pam has lectured widely in the UK, Ireland, Europe and Australia. She continues to run training workshops on the subject of NDP3 and Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS).
Pam was a member of the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists’ project team that produced the (2011) Policy Statement on Developmental Verbal Dyspraxia and more recently the (2024) Position Paper on Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Chelsea Hulse- Friends of Speech Apraxia Parent Champion-UK
Hi everyone! I’m Chelsea, a nurse & mother to two boys, Logan & Lucas. Lucas has a diagnosis of Childhood Apraxia of Speech & Developmental Co-ordination Disorder. Our journey has helped to lay the foundations for my growing interest in CAS & communication as a whole I am so excited to become a Parent Champion with Speech Apraxia UK, & see what this community can achieve! My hope is that no one with CAS feels alone or disadvantaged by their diagnosis.
Jon Hunt (Friends of Speech Apraxia-Speech and Language Therapist, Acquired Apraxia of Speech specialist)-UK
Jon is a UK-based speech and language therapist specialising in acquired aphasia and apraxia of speech. He worked in the National Health Service for 20 years before beginning work on Cuespeak, an app for iPad that allows people with aphasia and apraxia of speech to carry out intensive, personalised therapy independently. Jon's special interests are the role of context in word production difficulties and the benefits of personalised therapy.
Hazel Shaw,(Specialist Independent Speech and Language Therapist)- Friends of Speech Childhood Apraxia of Speech Expert-UK
Ruth invited me to become a Friend of Speech Apraxia UK and I am always eager to support any initiative that raises awareness and understanding of CAS, as well as improves access to essential specialist services. CAS is a highly specialised area and many Speech and Language Therapists have limited experience in working with it. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and experience with others to help ensure the best possible outcomes for the children we support.
Lottie Berry- Friends of Speech Apraxia Parent Champion-UK
Lottie Berry is the Founder of Tap Type Talk, an autism, apraxia, and AAC advocacy and advisory platform.As a Mum to an autistic non-speaking son who has Suspected Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Lottie is passionate about supporting parents who are following a similar journey. She believes that every non-speaking child deserves a voice of their own through AAC, specialist speech support, and literacy instruction.
Avarind Namasivayam-Speech and Language Pathologist, researcher)- Friends of Speech Childhood Apraxia of Speech Expert-Canada
Dr. Aravind Namasivayam is an internationally recognized expert in speech motor control andpediatric speech disorders. He holds a clinical degree in Speech-Language Pathology, withadvanced specialization in Neuroscience at the doctoral and post-doctoral levels. Dr.Namasivayam has led several government- and industry-funded randomized clinical trials,driven policy changes and shaping evidence-based care pathways for children. He has authored53 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters and delivered over 80 presentations and workshopsat international conferences. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including recognitionfrom the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the Stuttering Foundation ofAmerica (SFA), Apraxia Kids, and the National Award for Excellence in Applied Research fromSpeech-Language and Audiology Canada (SAC). Dr. Namasivayam teaches speech physiology,research methods, and pediatric speech sound disorders at the University of Toronto. In 2018, hefounded the Speech Research Centre Inc., dedicated to making evidence-informed practicesaccessible to clinicians worldwide. He is also the co-founder of Hear2Speak.org, a non-profitorganization committed to improving speech-language pathology and audiology services inunderserved regions globally.
Olga Kamadina-(Speech Pathologist)- Friends of Speech Childhood Apraxia of Speech Expert—Australia
I’m Olga Komadina, a Speech Pathologist in Australia with over 20 years of experience, specialising in Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), as well as autism. I run Olga Komadina Apraxia Therapy and provide intensive therapy, supervision, and mentoring for speech pathologists worldwide. I became a Friend of Speech Apraxia to support greater awareness and collaboration internationally, and to advocate for children with CAS and their families so they can access the therapy and recognition they deserve.
Lorraine Bamblett -(Specialist Independent Speech and Language Therapist)- Friends of Speech Childhood Apraxia of Speech Expert-UK
Lorraine is a lecturer in speech and language therapy at Keele University. She specialises in phonetics and speech sound disorders. She has had a special interest in CAS since working with children with developmental language disorder and severe speech sound disorder including CAS in a speech and language centre for 15 years. She is passionate about evidence based practice and supporting SLTs to give children with CAS the best possible outcomes.
Meet us
Julia Chauvet (Friends of Speech Apraxia-Research specialist)- The Netherlands
Julia Chauvet (Friends of Speech Apraxia-Research specialist)- The Netherlands
Julia Chauvet (Friends of Speech Apraxia-Research specialist)- The Netherlands
Julia Chauvet from the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics researches motor speech planning.
Pam Slater (Friends of Speech Apraxia - Parent Ambassador)-UK
Julia Chauvet (Friends of Speech Apraxia-Research specialist)- The Netherlands
Julia Chauvet (Friends of Speech Apraxia-Research specialist)- The Netherlands
Pam is a parent of two children, one who has speech apraxia linked with the FOXP2 gene. For many years she has raised awareness of the genetic causes of speech apraxia and is well known for her tireless work. Pam is a trustee of the charity Mikey's Whish Foundation.
Lucy Smith (Friend of Speech Apraxia)-UK
Julia Chauvet (Friends of Speech Apraxia-Research specialist)- The Netherlands
Rosemary Varley (Friends of Speech Apraxia -Acquired Apraxia of Speech Specialist)-UK
I am Lucy and I am currently a 4th year Master of Speech and Language Sciences Student at Newcastle University. I chose to become a Friend of Speech Apraxia UK because I have a strong interest in both childhood and acquired apraxia of speech. These are conditions that are often misunderstood or overlooked. I'm eager to learn more, hear lived experiences from individuals and families, speech and language therapists and researchers. I'm also interested in the latest research and therapy approaches to help improve understanding and support for those who live with apraxia
Rosemary Varley (Friends of Speech Apraxia -Acquired Apraxia of Speech Specialist)-UK
Rosemary Varley (Friends of Speech Apraxia -Acquired Apraxia of Speech Specialist)-UK
Rosemary Varley (Friends of Speech Apraxia -Acquired Apraxia of Speech Specialist)-UK
Rosemary Varley is Professor in Language and Cognition at University College London. She works in the field of speech and language ability following a stroke. She has designed and tested digital interventions for apraxia of speech and aphasia. She has published research articles in major international journals such as Nature Reviews Neuroscience, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of USA, and Current Biology, as well as journals focused on speech and language therapy (e.g., Aphasiology). Her research has been funded by Government research councils, and charities such as the UK Stroke Association and Leverhulme Trust.
Georgia Leckie (Friends of Speech Apraxia -Parent Champion)-UK
Rosemary Varley (Friends of Speech Apraxia -Acquired Apraxia of Speech Specialist)-UK
Mac Mackay (Friends of Speech Apraxia) Researcher, lived experience.
Georgia is a parent of a child with CAS and a passionate advocate for awareness and service provision.
Georgia is a trustee of the charity Mikey's Whish Foundation.
Mac Mackay (Friends of Speech Apraxia) Researcher, lived experience.
Rosemary Varley (Friends of Speech Apraxia -Acquired Apraxia of Speech Specialist)-UK
Mac Mackay (Friends of Speech Apraxia) Researcher, lived experience.
Mac grew up with childhood apraxia of speech which ignited a passion in him to spread knowledge in motor speech and in particular speech apraxia.
Dr. Ioanna Anastasopoulou (Friends of Speech Apraxia, Research specialist)-Canada
Dr. Ioanna Anastasopoulou (Friends of Speech Apraxia, Research specialist)-Canada
Dr. Ioanna Anastasopoulou (Friends of Speech Apraxia, Research specialist)-Canada
Dr. Ioanna Anastasopoulou is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. Her research program bridges the fields of speech neuroscience, linguistics and clinical speech pathology, focusing on the neural mechanisms underlying speech motor control in typical and speech-disordered populations. Her recent work uses advanced neuroimaging techniques including magnetoencephalography (MEG) and a novel MEG-compatible articulographic system to identify neuropathological mechanisms in Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Liz Bedson (Friends of Speech Apraxia, AOS and Aphasia Charity Founder) -UK
Dr. Ioanna Anastasopoulou (Friends of Speech Apraxia, Research specialist)-Canada
Dr. Ioanna Anastasopoulou (Friends of Speech Apraxia, Research specialist)-Canada
Liz Bedsonn and Arthur Harding run the Stroke Survivors Speech & Language Support Group. Liz says "I started in 2016 when my dad survived a stroke. His speech, language and communication was affected along with his emotions. There was no support that benefitted him as he wasn’t included or talked over and ignored. Not what I expected at all. I am an ordinary person with no medical or professional qualifications but who just wanted to support my dad and others like him to access and live in his community in a positive way. So the journey started!
Roll forward to today, we are now a charity, now respected by the stroke association with the support we provide for our groups which are all thriving. We have 5 face to face groups in Cheshire East and a virtual online group. We plan to open a new group every year as what we provide empowers survivors to recover, reclaim and rebuild their lives. We work alongside the NHS Community S & L therapists who at the beginning disliked me. Everything is based around aphasia but my eyes have now been opened by apraxia and tbh I’d never heard of it! Ruth approached me and well the rest is what you already know by this lovely lady. We are now collaborating and Ruth will come and provide training to our volunteers on how to support our Survivors with apraxia. Many of our survivors have apraxia as well as aphasia. I will be taking it up with our S & L therapists too. I will also be spreading the word to everyone I am currently in contact with including the stroke association. The lack of awareness is shocking so we need to push awareness".
Kendra Frank (Friends of Speech Apraxia, Non-Profit Founder) -UK
Dr. Ioanna Anastasopoulou (Friends of Speech Apraxia, Research specialist)-Canada
Kendra and Elliot set up 'Elliot's Voice' She is a fantastic asset to out team with her zest for giving everyone a voice.
Allona Bondar (Speech and Language Pathologist) CAS expert, Friend of Speech Apraxia
Allona Bondar (Speech and Language Pathologist) CAS expert, Friend of Speech Apraxia
Alonna has recorded a podcast with us and is a great asset to Speech Apraxia UK from the USA. Alonna is PROMPT certified and DTTC trained, and listed on the Apraxia Kids directory. She is a pediatric speech language pathologist with over 25 years of experience specializing in apraxia and other speech sound disorders.
Saray Causey-Freeman (Parent Champion) CAS expert, Friend of Speech Apraxia
Allona Bondar (Speech and Language Pathologist) CAS expert, Friend of Speech Apraxia
Saray Causey-Freeman (Parent Champion) CAS expert, Friend of Speech Apraxia
I’m Sarah, a parent of a child with Childhood Apraxia of Speech. My family’s journey has driven my passion for raising awareness of this rare and often misunderstood speech disorder. I became a Friend of Speech Apraxia UK to advocate for the specialist, long‑term therapy that children with apraxia urgently need. I’m committed to improving understanding, ensuring families feel supported, and promoting access to the right interventions so every child with apraxia can reach their full communication potential
News
Some of the Organisations we have worked with
We cannot spread awareness alone.We work with many people with speech apraxia, organizations, professionals, and parents, including:
Charities/SLCN organisations
New Zealand Speech Language Therapy Association.
RCSLT
Selective Mutism Information & Research Association (SMIRA)
Elliot's Voice
From Stuttering to confidence
PROMPT Institute
Nuffield Association
RADLD
Universities
Newcastle University Students' Union
The University of Sydney: One of Australia’s top universities
Companies
SLPFlow AI - Best AI for SLPs | SLP
Researchers
Murdoch Children's Research Institute.
Sick Childrens Hospital-research group
No longer who I used to be says Kris Kamara
Chris Kamara admits, 'I'm no longer the person I used to be' and reveals deep regret. Sky Sports star Chris Kamara's life was turned upside down in 2022 when he was diagnosed with apraxia of speech (AOS), which also affected his balance and coordination.
Chris, 67, flew to Mexico for treatment in a bid to reverse or slow down some of the effects of the neurological disorder, which include difficulty when speaking. However, despite initial success, the machine that transmitted radio frequency and magnetic fields into the body similar to an MRI became less effective, resulting in Chris stopping treatment(Mirror, 2025).
Esteemed International Expert contributing to Speech Apraxia UK
We were absolutely delighted to share that Professor Emeritus Anita van der Merwe globally respected leader in the field of motor speech disorders — has shared warm praise for our new website.
In her message, Professor van der Merwe wrote:
“Congratulations on your website for apraxia of speech for people in the UK and elsewhere; it is a great website!”
She even wrote a special guest piece for the site, focusing on apraxia of speech and approaches to speech motor treatment.
We’re truly excited and honoured to welcome her voice to the website.
Join the speech apraxia discussion on Facebook
Join our Facebook community to discuss all things Apraxia of Speech - Facebook
Elliot's Voice
Motorists with communication needs offered free seatbelt covers
From a kitchen table laminator to schools, parks & even fire stations — Kendra Frank turned her son Elliott’s CAS journey into Elliott’s Voice. Her organization, which she founded in 2023, aims to provide accessible visual supports to children and adults who are nonverbal or have limited verbal abilities,
Motorists with communication needs offered free seatbelt covers
Motorists with communication needs offered free seatbelt covers
Motorists with communication needs offered free seatbelt covers
The useful packs have been distributed to each Police Enquiry Office (PEO) across Devon and Cornwall so anyone who feels they may benefit from one can collect one
Unique - Rare Chromosome Disorder Support Group
Did you know joining Unique is completely FREE?
If you have a rare chromosome or gene disorder you can join our membership to access our support, expertise and get connected with other families affected by the same condition. We'd love to have you join our supportive community.
https://rarechromo.org/join-us/
Autism, AAC and Autism
Autism, AAC and Autism
Laura Brown (spinningworldofautism) who has a son with autism and CAS has created two short Google Forms to gather experiences: one for families and one for both NHS and independent Speech and Language Therapists.
The aim is to collect lived experiences from families of autistic children, as well as from therapists who have supported autistic children.
If you could please complete the form relevant to you and also share it with families or colleagues who may wish to contribute, She would greatly appreciate it. If possible, it would also be very helpful if you could share it within your WhatsApp groups or networks. 
Form for families: https://forms.gle/D7BbsQPyqvGgbErcA
Form for NHS Speech Therapists: https://forms.gle/nQqCJkLQqewcH4B8A
Form for Independent Speech Therapists: https://forms.gle/YexT3CHNvnsDrRkw8
rSpeech Apraxia UK recieves no
Disclaimer
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information on this website (www.speechapraxia.co.uk), the content is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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