The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) has presented a national Giving Voice award to Nick Smith, MP for Blaenau Gwent. This prestigious accolade, recognises his exceptional dedication to raising the political profile of Bercow: Ten Years On – an independent review of provision for children and young people with speech, language and communication needs (SLCN), conducted by the RCSLT and I CAN, the children’s charity.

The Giving Voice Awards, held annually, celebrate individuals and organisations that have campaigned to highlight how speech and language therapy transforms lives. The awards are presented to those who have made particularly valuable contributions to improving the lives of people with communication and/or swallowing needs.

Nick Smith’s commitment to this cause saw him securing ‘on-the-record’ pledges from the Government in relation to the Bercow: Ten Years On Report recommendations, including through asking Theresa May a question about the report at Prime Minister’s Questions and a series of written parliamentary questions.

Nick was one of just 16 Giving Voice Award winners this year and his award was officially presented at a ceremony at the House of Commons.

Kamini Gadhok MBE, Chief Executive of the RCSLT, said: “We are very pleased to present Nick with a Giving Voice award. The judges were very impressed by Nick’s dedication to promoting Bercow: Ten Years On and the impact that had in terms of raising its political profile and securing pledges of Government action.”

Nick Smith MP commented: “I am honoured and delighted to have been presented with a Giving Voice award. Ensuring that children and young people with speech, language and communication needs receive the support they and their families need has long been an interest of mine. I look forward to continuing working to ensure that they get the support they require to achieve their potential.”