City St George’s academic and alumni win at RCSLT awards • City St George's, University of London

Three individuals connected with the University were recognised for their contributions to the field of speech and language therapy

By Mr George Wigmore (Senior Communications Officer), Published Monday, 13^th January 2025

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) held its annual awards ceremony in Birmingham in late 2024, recognising excellence and innovation across the field of speech and language therapy.

Among the honourees were three individuals connected with City St George’s, University of London and its School of Health & Psychological Sciences: Professor Lucy Henry, Martina Curtin, and Leigh Andrews. Each has made a significant impact within the profession, and their achievements were celebrated in front of a distinguished audience, including RCSLT President Nick Hewer, CEO Steve Jamieson, and Chair Irma Donaldson.

Professor Lucy Henry awarded Honorary Fellowship

Professor Lucy Henry, a well-known figure in developmental psychology and speech and language research, was awarded the prestigious Honorary Fellowship at the ceremony. This award recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the speech and language therapy profession and those it serves. Professor Henry’s work has focused on advancing our understanding of language and cognitive development, particularly among children with additional needs. Her research has informed best practices and contributed to the academic and professional development of speech and language therapists throughout the UK.

Speaking about the award, Professor Henry said: “It’s an honour to be recognised with this Fellowship. The speech and language therapy profession has a profound impact on individuals and communities, and I’m delighted to contribute to its growth and advancement.”

Alumni recognised

Alumni Martina Curtin and Leigh Andrews were also recognised for their contributions to co-production with service user partners and fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion, respectively.

Dr Martina Curtin, a PhD graduate, won an award for involving parents and practitioners in developing the EPID Tool (Early Parent Interaction with Deaf Children). This tool, created in collaboration with service users and their families, provides essential support for parents and children navigating communication challenges from an early age.

When asked what has helped her research, Martina said: “Gaining and maintaining an engaged patient and public involvement group was my proudest achievement. They left a distinctive mark on me as a practitioner and a researcher. They helped centre the work on what mattered most, and I feel the EPID will become a far better tool because of them.”

Leigh Andrews, a 2019 Speech and Language Therapy alumna, received an award in the category of Fostering Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. Through her Change Communication initiative, Leigh has addressed communication barriers within homelessness services and beyond, advocating for inclusive communication strategies that cater to the diverse needs of service users.

In addition, alumnus Alex Ruck Keene KC (Hons), a practising barrister and educator who specialises in mental capacity law at 39 Essex Chambers, also received an Honorary Fellowship.

Celebrating contributions to the profession and community

The 2024 RCSLT Awards celebrated a range of impactful achievements from professionals and teams dedicated to improving the lives of those with communication and swallowing needs. The event showcased initiatives that have advanced the profession and supported individuals and communities across the UK

For further details on the awards and a complete list of nominees and winners, visit the RCSLT awards page.

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