Glentham: Speech and language therapist will receive MBE

Bryony Simpson, deputy medical director and speech and language therapist at Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust (NLaG) has been named on the New Year’s Honours List.

Over the last 35 years, Bryony, from Glentham, has achieved a vast amount and the launch of the North Lincolnshire Communication Strategy in 2013 is one of her proudest moments.

She said: “As part of my nomination there were many achievements cited, one of which included my leadership in the Bercow review of speech and language therapy services for children and young people in 2008/9.”

“John Bercow, speaker of the House of Commons supported my nomination which feels amazing.”

“Work from this was implemented locally to set up the North Lincolnshire Communication Strategy which is a partnership between NLaG and North Lincolnshire Council to support and develop the communication skills of children and young people in the area.”

“For three years between 2011 and 2014, I was the chair of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and as well as my role in promoting the profession with national and local politicians, my nomination was also linked to work I did to develop the 2014 International Year of Communication.”

“I am humbled that my passion for the work I do has been recognised at this level.”

“I was astonished when I received the letter from the Cabinet Office as it was the last thing I was expecting.”

“My career has been such a positive experience and taught me so much.”

“I am hugely grateful to the Trust I work for that is supportive of all work that improves services for patients and their families.”

“They have been forward thinking in their approach to my wider involvement and their backing has been crucial.”

Bryony, a married mum-of-three, wants to thank her family who she says have been a constant source of inspiration and have helped to raise awareness of the issues for those with speech, language and swallowing difficulties.

She added: “I will continue to raise awareness with my ultimate aim to help get communication difficulties recognised nationally as a disability.”