A speech therapist has been recognised for her expertise in working with children who have communication challenges.
Hazel Shaw, who grew up in Lower Wick and now lives in Warndon Villages, is one of just three therapists in the UK listed by the Mikey’s Wish Foundation as a specialist in childhood apraxia of speech (CAS).
CAS is a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to plan and coordinate the movements needed for speech.
Ms Shaw said: “Being recognised by the Mikey’s Wish Foundation means a huge amount to me.
“I put so much into helping children develop their communication and supporting children with CAS is an area I feel particularly passionate about.
“Families can find it difficult to access specialist support, so I want people to know that this expertise is available here in Worcester.”
The Mikey’s Wish Foundation, a UK charity focused on raising awareness of CAS, was founded by Mikey Akers MBE, who lives with the condition.
Mr Akers said: “As a charity, raising awareness and funds for childhood apraxia of speech, it is invaluable for Mikey’s Wish Foundation to gain access to Hazel Shaw’s highly specialist knowledge on CAS and be able to signpost parents to her so they can gain the assessment and support that they so desperately need.”
Ms Shaw supports children and families through her independent practice in Warndon Villages and also works in schools across Worcester.
She is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and is a member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.
Jane Russell, former manager of the West Midlands Cleft Palate Team, said: “Hazel is an excellent therapist and a lovely person to work with.”
Families have shared similar praise.
Scarlett, who travels from Taunton to Worcester for her son Frankie’s therapy, said: “After years of struggling to find the right help, finding Hazel through Mikey’s Wish has been life-changing.”
Chelsea, whose son Lucas was diagnosed with CAS by Hazel, said: “Hazel has literally changed my child’s life through targeted speech therapy.”
More information about Ms Shaw’s services can be found on her Facebook page, Hazel Shaw Independent Speech and Language Therapist.
