International Stammering Awareness Day
We're proud to share that Natasha Salawu, Diabetes Specialist Podiatrist at Norfolk Community Health & Care NHS Trust and West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, has written an insightful article for the September/October 2025 edition of The Podiatrist magazine.
In her piece, Space for Stammering , Natasha explores the topic of stammering in the workplace, drawing on her own lived experience and professional perspective. The article coincides with International Stammering Awareness Day (22 October) and aims to raise awareness of speech conditions and how podiatrists - and healthcare professionals more broadly - can support patients and colleagues who stammer.
Natasha shares how stammering has shaped her communication style and professional journey and offers practical advice for creating more inclusive environments. She reminds us that stammering is a neurological condition, not a reflection of confidence or competence, and that people who stammer are legally protected under the Equality Act.
Supporting patients and colleagues who stammer
Natasha's article includes helpful suggestions for how we can all be more supportive:
When speaking with patients:
- Maintain eye contact and avoid interrupting or finishing their sentences.
- Be patient - giving someone time to speak is a powerful act of respect.
- Offer alternative communication methods, such as online booking or messaging apps.
- Avoid assumptions - stammering is not a sign of nervousness or lack of knowledge.
When working with colleagues:
- Ask if they'd like support, and what kind works best for them.
- Don't exclude them from tasks like presentations - just ask if they're comfortable.
- Ensure they're included in meetings and given time to contribute.
Natasha is a member of both the NHS Stammering Network and national charity STAMMA, and her advocacy is helping to shape a more inclusive and understanding NHS.
Visit stamma.org for more resources.