IF the Bury Speakeasy group has to close, the effect will be devastating for many of the members whose only link with speech therapy, and contact with people with similar problems, is by attending the centre. Not only should it be encouraged to continue, it should be promoted as a role model and an example of how such a centre can help people with long-term speech disorders.

Bury Speakeasy is becoming very well-known for the innovative way in which it is run, and the difference it has made to its members.

My husband was written-off by other Authorities and we both became very depressed with our situation; no one appeared to care for such a long time. But since getting in touch with Speakeasy things have changed very much for the better and my husband looks forward to his weekly visit. His attitude and motivation have increased considerably, all due to the work done at the centre.

It also allows me, as his 24-hour a day carer, to have a couple of hours of free time, which carers desperately need. I also speak for another member, who sadly recently died. For him and his wife the centre was certainly something to look forward to attending and greatly helped him with his speech difficulties.

Bury should be proud of Speakeasy. The town is extremely fortunate to have a centre with such dedicated staff and volunteers, who have given up their time so willingly over the past 15 years.

Far from closing, this centre should be helped in every way possible to continue and used to show other local authorities the way forward for people with distressing speech problems.

MRS B. J. WALKER,

Egerton, Bolton.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.