What we do
A SMASH outing on the River Thames
SMASH aims to help its members regain their self-confidence through:
- communication
- talking
- friendship, and
- having fun!
Social Events
A SMASH outing to Brooklands Museum
We arrange social events such as:
- outings to interesting locations
- boat trips
- visits to similar groups
- luncheons
- meetings with action groups
Guest speakers
Speech therapist Susie Parr speaking at SMASH
We also arrange guest speakers on numerous topics – many related to aphasia, therapy, support and research.
Campaigning
SMASH members campaigning on the high street
We campaign to raise awareness of aphasia as a disability through newspaper articles, magazines and journals.
We hold awareness day events and displays in the high street, shopping centres, fêtes and hospitals.
We keep close contact with our local Members of Parliament and councillors.
MP Paul Burstow visits SMASH
We invite them to our meetings to make them aware of our presence and disability issues.
Media
SMASH members continue to attend seminars and workshops organised and run by the Media Trust. Some of the seminars and workshops include:
- Advanced communications workshop
- Networking
- Creating ideas for campaigning
- Planning successful events
- Perfecting your PR strategy
- Blogging and podcasts
- Working with local media
- Pitching on paper
- Writing a press release
- Introduction to web design
SMASH is grateful to the Media Trust for the opportunities to participate in these events. SMASH found them to be of enormous benefit in promoting the self help group by enabling it to spread awareness of SMASH and of aphasia.