People with Parkinsons living in St Albans may be able to benefit from training to help them improve their speaking and make themselves understood.

One of the effects of Parkinsons can be the inability to speak loudly, speaking in a monotone, or with a hoarse voice, imprecise articulation and a lessened facial expression.

West Herts Parkinsons branch currently offers a singing group called ‘Find Your Voice’, which aims to help participants speak less quietly and more clearly and has introduced an intensive course of therapy.

Lee Silverman Voice Training will now begin in West Hertfordshire, for 16 people, which includes a one hour assessment, 16 hours of treatment, and a six-month follow up. After four months of the pilot study, the therapists will decide if anyone can do the training by Skype, at which point the number of participants can be increased up to a maximum of 22.

Branch Secretary Richard Windle said: "Many people with Parkinsons get told to speak up, or speak more clearly. This training is proven to help people get their voice back.

"If you think you would benefit from taking part, then ask your GP to refer you to the Speech and Language therapy department at the hospital, and ask them to say that the referral is for assessment for suitability for Lee Silverman Voice Training."

For more information contact Richard Windle on 01582 626351.