Support
Please find information below about support for those with swallowing difficulties.
There are also charities who can support individuals with swallowing difficulties resulting from specific conditions.
This support is specific to the United Kingdom.
If you wish to access support for your swallowing difficulty from another country, please contact your doctor for advice.
In the UK, referral to a Speech and Language Therapist via your GP would be the way to access assessment and advice about dysphagia. Click here to locate local GP services.
For more detailed information about dysphagia management in the UK, please visit the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists' website here.
In the event of an emergency call 999, or the NHS 111 helpline for non-emergency, urgent out of hours advice.
If you are feeling distressed as a result of your dysphagia, please see here for sources of support.
Macmillan aims to reach and improve the lives of everyone living with cancer. Macmillan's website has information about their free and confidential support line, as well as forums and email support.
Parkinson's UK aims to find a cure, and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's. They provide information for people with Parkinson's and their family or carers, and have a free and confidential helpline and email support.
The Stroke Association provides specialist support, funds critical research and campaigns to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives. They provide regional support services and clubs / groups across the country. There is a stroke helpline and email contact, as well as information and support across their website.
MND Association
The MND Association supports individuals with Motor Neurone Disease, and their family/carers. There is an MND Connect helpline, local support information and advice about living with MND.
For specific information about swallowing, eating and drinking, see here
MS Society
The MS Society supports individuals with Multiple Sclerosis and their family/carers. There is a support line, an online forum and advice about living with MS.
For specific information about swallowing, see here
If you are feeling distressed about your dysphagia, please see here for NHS advice and resources about mental health and wellbeing to support you.
Samaritans
The Samaritans have a helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if you are experiencing significant distress. Their website also provides resources and support here.
