All young people

I am a qualified Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) working privately in Lambeth, inner South London. I work privately because I am past retirement age. But I remain a committed supporter of the NHS. I owe my life to the NHS after surviving four episodes of septicaemia – a debt I deeply recognise.

I continue to practise because I believe I still have something valuable to offer.

I’ve spent many years working with children and young people, supporting those with developmental speech and language disorders. I focus on practical, face-to-face therapy – not remote sessions – because effective communication support often depends on direct personal contact, especially for younger children.

Who do I help – and when to seek support

I support toddlers, children, teenagers, and young adults with developmental issues in speech or language. My work does not cover degenerative or acquired disorders such as those caused by strokes or trauma.

I don’t recommend intervention for every child slightly behind the expected milestones. But when there’s a significant delay, it’s important to act promptly. Knowing the difference between ‘slight’ and ‘significant’ is where professional judgement comes in.

Many of the children I’ve worked with were aged seven to ten, though I’ve also helped teenagers who had fallen through the net when they were younger. While delayed treatment can be more challenging, progress is still possible.