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Speech and Language therapy in the UHDB Parkinson's Team

Overview. We are a small team of therapists who offer assessment and therapy for people with Parkinsons or related conditions. We see people in a clinic based at Florence Nightingale Community Hospital. We use a motor learning approach in therapy which means intensity of practice is important. We pride ourselves on offering therapy that is meaningful and motivating.

Speech therapy can help people with swallowing problems, voice difficulties, fast or mumbled speech, dysfluency (stammering/stuttering), communication problems linked to changes in speech skills and can give advice on saliva management. Our therapists are Lee Silverman Voice Therapy (LSVT) certified clinicians. For more information on this type of therapy please follow this link: What is the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment for Parkinson's?(External link to parkinsonsdisease.net)

What type of therapy?
Therapy is offered on a 1:1 basis or in groups. Groups can be addressing voice issues, conversation partner training or an opportunity to learn about dysphagia.

How do I get referred?
People are referred to clinic by their GP, Consultant, Parkinsons Nurse or a therapy colleague (physiotherapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, dietitian). These professionals can write to us directly:
Speech Therapy,
Derby Parkinsons Team,
Specialist Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Community Hospital,
Derby, DE1 2QY

Research past and present:
Manchester University: using gesture to help communication
Sing to Beat project: how singing can improve therapy outcomes
Better Conversations trial site 2025, a conversation support focussed therapy from UCL
More ideas on the way - watch this space!

Leaflet created by Manchester University for use in clinic. Click on the image for pdf version.