Courses & Support
For Adult Stammerers
Course Review
Our First Course of 2026
Held in the heart of Winchester.
Our first Course of 2026
Chairs and Resources Bag all ready for everybody to arrive.
What an amazing group of people .
Just love our Handbook and Journals
Photos after a successful time in Winchester putting the technique into practice.
Love this photo of the group enjoying a meal out and all using the technique to chat away to each other and order their food.
The hotel room was wonderful, large and airy and perfect for our non fragrance environment.
First Course of 2026
Course Date: January 2026
Course Venue: Heart of Winchester UK
Course Delivered by: Heidi Bristow
Driving into Winchester for Day One of the first course of 2026, seeing the back of the King Alfred Statue against the sky, always makes me feel happy. But this morning, I was more than happy — I was feeling very excited to share the technique and welcome the new members onto the course.
We arrived at the hotel and set the room up ready for the course. The room was lovely and so airy, with plenty of space. Teas and coffees were all ready and waiting for when everybody started to arrive. It was really great to welcome everyone; there was anticipation, nervous excitement in the air, intrigue, and enthusiasm for what the course was about to hold.
Again, as previously mentioned, the layout wasn’t what was expected — the recliner chairs and throws for comfort — plenty of space and a fragrance-free environment making it comfortable for everybody.
A warm welcome to everyone — from myself — then introductions are recorded for each member to have a personal record of their speech before using the Changes Technique and then afterwards. For some covert stammerers, stammering isn’t often recorded, but the change in body language from Day 1 to 4 is great to see. Each participant knows and can feel the difference for themselves, even when hidden from others.
I personally deliver every course, which ensures consistency and allows me to support each participant throughout the programme. This also works really well as I keep all the courses small to ensure everybody feels heard and supported.
Once we started doing the breathing/relaxation, it was wonderful to see the room just relax into it. Smiles all around. Then learning the technique — then when we started introducing talking using the technique, it was wonderful to see. The first day is very much about learning the technique — we all enjoyed lunch and dinner together, with lots of controlled chatter.
On the second day, it was great to see the smiling faces coming back into the room. All had already started practicing what we had done the day before and were ready to learn the next stages.
Lots more learning was had in the morning — it was wonderful to see everybody learning the technique and really enjoying using it. All were feeling very relaxed and comfortable to ask questions at any time. One of our members recorded a little video message with me for her parents to show how she was progressing. <3
We all enjoyed lunch together — I say a working lunch — as everyone was very aware that the technique needs to be continually practiced. After lunch, we went out into Winchester, where we did some “purposeful practice.” This is where we use the techniques learned, in pairs to begin with, and ask questions or chat to people in shops. I had the pleasure of going with each member at some point, and we swapped pairs around throughout the time we were out.
A few examples: One of our members went into a cake shop and asked for some cakes — three different flavours, all asked for using the technique, very controlled and natural. The smile afterwards said it all.
Another member saw some wall art by a local artist, Hendog, and some people were stood nearby talking about it. Overhearing the conversation, he casually joined in. Afterwards, while walking away, he realised what he had done and how amazing it felt — something he would never have done before.
Another member got caught up with somebody selling something in the street but really relished the conversation and enjoyed himself. He also found himself being included in a street performance and being asked his name — something that many stammerers find very difficult. He was randomly put into this situation and handled it amazingly, and was/is so proud of himself.
Another member, returning after his first course back in April 2025, who for many years has tried to hide his stammer, enjoyed asking questions and purchasing something “squirrel” related. IF YOU KNOW — YOU KNOW 😊😊 (first course joy). He also had conversations with sales assistants, just general chit-chat, and added that he was on a course for people who stammer. Being very open about what he was doing and why was something that has really helped him move forward, accepting that he is a person who stammers and can control it using a technique.
There was lots of fun had, lots of different “purposeful practice” in everyday situations (well, nearly all everyday — it’s not everyday a street performer randomly selects you to be part of his act 😊). We then all met up to enjoy a coffee together in a café where I have spent many hours working on my courses. We each ordered our own drinks — it was wonderful to all sit together on a large table and chit-chat over our drinks. It was very special. I then noticed my husband’s face as he came to join us. He was feeling quite emotional. He later explained to us all that he was observing us casually sitting, enjoying our drinks, and chatting naturally. What he was noticing was that nobody was watching or looking at us. He was aware, from previous experience, how people can look, secretly glance, or stare at people who stammer or who are speaking differently. He became very aware that there was nothing — and shared this with us back at the hotel.
The practice continued with the evening meal at a local restaurant, and then back at the hotel we enjoyed chatting over a drink before getting some rest for another full day ahead.
Saturday consisted of more learning of tools to support the technique, and then lots of the same practice. “Practice makes Progress.” Practicing in pairs and also alone too, as its important to feel confident practicing alone for when you return back to your everyday life.
Sunday morning was filled with recapping everything, then we did our Day 4 videos.
This was quite emotional.
During the course, emotions often come up, some memories, sometimes just the anticipation of trying something new. But we all understand the emotions as we have all been there.
Some happy emotions arise from the progress being made by ourselves and by others.
With the groups being small, breaks can be taken while we talk through emotions, take a breather (literally), or grab a coffee.
The rooms are large enough to take a moment for a private chat if and when needed. We have often held onto emotions for some time, and they can often come to a head when you feel and see change happening. Or when you are with others who truly understand. The important thing is that it’s a safe and supportive environment.
The Day 4 videos brought us nearly to the end of the course. We had our final words and ensured everybody had their “Changes Resources Bag.” Each member has their own Changes Bag, Handbook, Journals and tools for breathing support/confirmation aid, tools to support practice, and a positive mindset — to be able to carry on using this technique knowing they are supported.
Please see Erin's Video below showing
Day 1 - Day4 and after the course.
Since the course
Since the course, there have been some amazing results and achievements. Firstly, taking the time to practice the technique and use “purposeful practice” in everyday life — armed with support and ideas to do this for everybody. As I must say, every single person who has come through Changes so far has been completely different: different day jobs, challenges, working hours, etc., etc.
We have had lots of fantastic results — lots of different goals — all of which are equally important, equally valid, and equally enjoyed and celebrated.
For example:
- Making telephone calls
- Speaking to family members
- Talking at board meetings
- Working with the public and speaking to many customers daily
- Running a business and explaining detailed work to clients about computers
- Ordering meals
- Speaking with a professional using own voice rather than using notes.
- Ordering hot chocolate and adding extra words like “enjoy your day”
- A couple of hours presentation to over 80 members of staff
- Being a “speaker” at a function for an industry to over 100 people, with Q&A then interviewed for a marketing video
- Buying stamps
- Phone calls for insurances and tax enquiries
- And much more…
The technique is not a cure; the technique needs to be used and practiced. If members have got caught or felt a stammer/block approaching, they now have tools and a technique to help them “let it go” and move forward.
We have enjoyed lots of telephone conversations and video calls to share the achievements, ask questions, practice, and get support. We have weekly support groups on Zoom — sometimes twice weekly — to ensure they are available to everyone around work commitments. You can see on this page some of the comments from members and a couple of videos.
If you or somebody you know stammers, our May course is coming up:
9th – 12th May 2026
Erin : One of our members Erin - sharing her video from Day 1,
then her video from Day 4 - along with a video of a few weeks after enjoying ordering her meal.
Wait for the smile :)
Meet Jim
This is Jim sharing a video 10 months after his first course.
What our members say :
Mini Course
April 5th - 6th 2025
A beautiful day in Winchester, and we were ready to begin our mini course.
We started with a warm welcome and a discussion about everyone’s goals and what they hoped to achieve from the course. There was a little hesitation in the air — a new course often brings up a mixture of feelings: hope, anticipation, and often emotion from past experiences.
You could see the reactions as they entered the room with the comfy recliner chairs — definitely not what they were expecting! I always prioritise comfort and support throughout the course, and that begins with the environment. Each chair had a soft throw beside it, in case anyone felt a bit chilly or preferred to cover up during the relaxation.
The group took to the breathing techniques quickly and really enjoyed getting back to basics — and the calmness of the breathing.
The "Changes Resources Bags" were a hit too — each member received one, filled with tools like a breathing support/confirmation aid, guide, journal, and other useful items to help support the technique, practice and positive mindset.
During the course and after I heard / received comments like:
- “A lot of thought has gone into these resources bags.”
- “The recourses bags are a really nice touch”
- “I didn’t expect it to be so modern.”
- “I love the wellness/wellbeing part of the course.”
- “I love the breathing and relaxation.”
- “Its easy to follow”
- “I’m really liking this”
- “I love the branding”
It was clear the technique was being embraced. We also explored tools for supporting a positive mindset, recognising negative self-talk, and learning how to reframe it.
At Changes, we empower each member to become their own coach and to work at their own pace. No two people are the same — so why should their pace be? Becoming your own coach helps you take responsibility for your speech, goals, and progress, all while being fully supported by me and the group.
We spent plenty of time practising the technique before heading into Winchester city centre to try it out in real-world settings: asking for directions, making enquiries in shops, and starting casual conversations with shop assistants.
One member enjoyed explaining that he was a stammerer and on a speech course, using a technique to manage his speech — he found this helped him feel more comfortable and confident. While this approach isn’t for everyone, it worked wonderfully for him.
Another member shared that when a friend asked why she was going to Winchester, she openly explained it was for her stammer — something she wouldn’t usually mention. Another big step!
Everyone found their own moments of progress. Watching the new members use the technique around town — in shops, at market stalls, and even at a craft fair — was pure joy.
The feedback they gave was lovely:
- “It went really well.”
- “I really enjoyed that.”
- “It feels so calm and natural.”
- “I feel really confident using this”
- “I really like how I sound using the technique”
- “I feel that I now have more control of my speech”
On a personal note, It was wonderful to watch one member buying gifts for her daughter, chatting and laughing with the shop assistant. Another member, shopping for a gift for his wife, asked the market stallholder for help finding a specific item — and because he asked, they found it under the table. He later said that before the course, he wouldn’t have asked. That gift — and the story behind it — will surely mean so much to both of them. ❤️
After our practice in town, we returned for dinner together and continued practicing in a relaxed, supportive setting. It was a lovely evening — full of funny stories and sharing our personal stammering journeys.
The next morning, I asked if anyone had done any breathing practice when they woke up. To which one member replied that he had already been out, ordered breakfast and coffee, and asked for directions using the technique! I’ll admit, that got me a little emotional. Seeing that level of eagerness and enjoyment was just amazing. Especially as I knew they were sceptical beforehand. 😊
We spent the rest of the day continuing with the course — laughing, reflecting, letting go of past pain, and focusing on creating a positive mindset. We took another trip into a different part of Winchester to practice in real-life situations: buying stamps, asking questions, ordering coffee and chatting together in a café. It all added to a very special and memorable course.
We ended the course by reviewing everything covered and making sure everyone felt ready and confident moving forward.
In the weeks since......
In the weeks since, there have been plenty of check-ins — hearing updates about how things have gone with family and friends. Then seeing how the technique is helping at work, in meetings, and on calls. I have been hearing how in control one member has been feeling in meetings explaining technical things to customers and clients. Then another member needed to discuss ideas of which reminders helped keep the breathing technique and focus during a high-pressure job. It’s been great talking about the different stages and all the progress that is being made and which reminders helped each person. It’s all about making it work for you and your situations/ life.
Talking about daily and weekly goals along with long term goals that are being built up to too, recognising and being proud of the achievements and steps that have already been made.
Everyone’s goals are different — one person might want to speak on stage or give a speech to a large crowd, another might just want to confidently order a cappuccino or read a bedtime story to their children or grandchildren. Every goal is equally important and equally worth celebrating.
This has really been a course worth celebrating – I have really enjoyed every minute of the course and every conversation to the new members since, hearing about all the achievements and discussing what areas they need a little support with.
It has been a privilege, and a joy working on my own speaking goals too.
Every goal matters – Every Voice matters.
Following the April Course
We received the following comments and this wonderful video message .
"As an observer: My lovely husband went on your course and came back even more wonderful, because of the ease with which he can now express things so much more deeply. "
"I can’t thank you enough. Your course continues to bring both of us so many benefits I’d never even thought or dreamed of before."
""I’ve already started recommending your course to others who have people who stammer in their lives — it’s been truly transformative."
I joined Heidi’s course in early April and really enjoyed it. I loved the breathing technique, it felt really easy to do and given it’s coupled with relaxation as well, I felt really at ease. I enjoyed the course being small, I got to know the other participants and it’s really good to talk to people that have the same challenges as I do. I felt the pace of the course was great. We started off slow to learn the technique and then adapted it across the weekend to tailor our own personality. I would really recommend this course.
Katie
Review of “Changes For Stammerers” Course
Written by Jim Fernbank.
Before speech therapy
When I turned 25, I was still very much in denial about my stammer: I was a covert stammerer, and had been quite “successful” at hiding it.
I was looking for work, and accepted a temporary job doing door-to-door market research interviews. I soon discovered a problem: the questions were scripted, and I had to read out the questions with the exact words as written.
I could not use my usual word-switching tricks. So on the first market research interview, I stammered on some words. On the second interview, I stammered on the same words, plus a few more. On the third interview, I stammered on the same words, plus a few more.
By the end of the project, I was having great difficulty in speaking the words, so I usually resorted to showing the questions to the interviewer.
I was very worried that I would be sacked for stammering. But no-one complained, and I actually completed more market research interviews than anyone else on the project!
However, the experience left me in no doubt that my stammer was out of control, speaking was too stressful, and I needed help.
Speech therapy and other courses
Over several years, I attended NHS speech therapy, and a variety of courses for people who stammer. These led me to accept that it is okay to stammer, and to focus on saying what I want to say. I was no longer trying to hide my stammer, or switch words, or avoid stammering. This shift in attitude also resulted in less, not more, stammering.
However, I knew that there was still plenty of room for improvement in the way that I spoke: for example, I would often speak too fast for me to speak loudly and clearly, so I would often have to repeat what I said.
“Changes For Stammerers” course
I heard about a new course called “Changes For Stammerers”, run by Heidi Bristow, who is herself a stammerer. I already knew Heidi from a previous course that was based on a costal breathing technique, where I was impressed by Heidi’s positivity and supportive nature to others on that course.
So I arranged a phone call with Heidi. On that call she explained that she is using a different breathing technique, which is not a cure for stammering, but allows her to speak with control and confidence. I was curious, and very impressed with the way that Heidi spoke: it sounded very natural and relaxed. I agreed to try her new course, in Winchester, England.
The course started with a relaxation technique, then moved on to incorporate breathing, and then to speaking. I fairly soon managed to get the hang of speaking with the technique, and I noticed how much more I felt in control of my speech.
There is much more to the course than just breathing: we talked about how we felt about stammering, and did some exercises of a more psychological nature.
We also went out to the city centre and practised speaking to other people. This helped me to build confidence in using the technique in real-world situations.
By the end of the course, I was very happy to speak with the new technique, and decided to keep speaking in this way.
I went back to work: I am a self-employed computer support technician, and I often have to explain technical concepts to non-technical computer users. Speaking with the new technique, I am much better able to speak at a pace which my listener can follow and understand the concepts that I am explaining, which is better for both of us.
This new breathing technique is less tiring and sounds more natural than costal breathing, (a technique that I previously used) and it feels more sustainable for speaking in long meetings.
Heidi is providing follow-up support to me, and we often speak on the phone and practise the technique. Heidi is very positive and encouraging, and it is always a pleasure to speak to her.
I am very glad that I went on the course, and it has gone even better than I expected.
I am writing this 2 weeks after completing the course, and I am confident that the course will be of lasting benefit to me.
Jim Fernbank
21st April 2025
“Changes"
Courses and support for
Adult Stammerers.