Community spotlight: E. Suffolk & Norfolk group

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Continuing our new series shining a light on stammering communities across the UK, we chat to John Thompson from the East Suffolk & Norfolk Stammering Support Group.

Did you know that there are almost 50 stammering communities and groups across the UK? At STAMMA, we're proud to support these independently-run communities, from local groups in places like Edinburgh and Coventry, to professional networks at the NHS and BBC.

We want to showcase the fantastic work that is going on, so we've launched our Community Spotlight series, where we bring groups from all corners of the nation straight to you!

For October, we're going to the east of England to chat with John Thompson, the founder of our East Suffolk & Norfolk Stammering Support Group.

STAMMA: Hi John! What made you start your stammering group?

John: I read an article in the press about one of the theories of what causes stammering. It prompted me to google it, and I found the British Stammering Association, now known as STAMMA. I was especially interested in reading about support groups, but the closest one to me was in Cambridge. So I decided to try to set up myself.

STAMMA: Can you tell us about your group and its members? What are typical meetings like in your group?

John: We want to help all those in our area who stammer, plus those affected by it, such as parents and loved ones, to feel they have people they can talk to. People who have had the same experiences and problems, and perhaps direct them to appropriate speech & language therapy. Mainly, however, we regard ourselves as a social group for people who stammer, being able to socialise in a relaxed way with others with the same issues, which can be good therapy in itself. Plus, as the University of East Anglia (which is based near Norwich) runs a BSc course in speech & language therapy, we also welcome students who want to know more about stammering.

STAMMA: Why do you think people would enjoy joining your group?

John: People who come to the group seem to enjoy the fact that it's very relaxed and there are no pressures involved. They feel easy talking about their difficulties, and those who might be apprehensive at first seem to overcome them. Most members have had or are having speech therapy, so they can offer advice about it to anyone who might be unsure of the best course of action to take.

STAMMA: What have you gained personally from being part of the East Suffolk and Norfolk Stammering Group?

John: I've made new friends, but mainly it's simply the satisfaction of having helped others who stammer. 

STAMMA: Final question! What would you say to anyone who is hesitant about joining a stammering support group? 

John: We understand your hesitancy because we've been there too, but you will find us friendly and welcoming and easy to talk to. It's fine to bring a friend or family member who doesn't stammer, if that makes it easier for you.

If you live in the area and would like to find out more about the East Suffolk & Norfolk group, get in touch with John. You can email him at johntommo6@btinternet.com or phone him on either 01502 581481 (best option) or 07485 243896. Read more about the group.

For the full list of groups and communities across the UK and online, see our Stammering Communities page. Nothing in your area? Why not start up your own group?