22nd October is International Stammering Awareness Day (ISAD), but at Action for Stammering Children, we’re celebrating with a whole month of events and activities.
Before we share our programme lineup, we want to pause and say thank you to everyone who makes this community what it is – the children and young people, families, school professionals, speech and language therapists, our ambassadors, and supporters. At ASC, every day is stammering awareness day.
To each of you, welcome to ISAD 2026. Let’s begin!
Watch Jessie join our youth panel
22nd October – Youth Panel meets Jessie: Honest conversations about stammering
On ISAD, we’re thrilled to premiere a special video featuring wonderful Jessie Roux.
Members of our youth panel sit down with Jessie to ask the questions that matter most, from navigating public speaking to finding confidence in everyday moments.
Whether you stammer or not, this conversation is designed to inspire.
Watch the full video on our YouTube. The link drops across our social media channels on 22nd October.
Events for Young People
20th October – Careers in Public Life
In collaboration with David Pinto-Duschinsky MP, we are offering an opportunity for young people (aged 16 -21) to gain an insight into pursuing a career in Public Life, be that politics, the civil service or local government. This two-hour workshop will take place in the UK Parliament. Young people will hear from David – who has a stammer himself – as he shares his own journey to becoming an MP, learn about how politics works, network with MPs and get a tour around Parliament!
Please apply via this link.
3rd November – Careers in Investment
In partnership with a leading global investment company, this event gives young people the chance to learn about the investment industry and speak with team members from across the business. They’re opening their doors to 16–25-year-olds who stammer to find out all about careers in investment.
The day includes a presentation on careers in investment and finance, giving you an opportunity to think and explore what different kinds of roles might be available for your interests. You’ll discover pathways ranging from client-facing positions like marketing and investor relations, to analytical roles such as equity research and risk analysis, as well as technical functions like operations.
Later, you’ll have the opportunity to chat in small groups with people from different roles, from marketing to trading, research, and risk management. This informal setting lets you ask questions and learn about their day-to-day experiences firsthand.
The event will take place on Tuesday 3rd November between 9.30am and Midday in Central London.
Fully funded by ASC, this is a fantastic opportunity!
If you are interested in joining this event, please contact: [email protected]
ASC Programmes
23rd October – Career Mentoring Cohort 5 opening ceremony
Our unique career mentoring programme kicks off with the new cohort of mentees and mentors. This marks the first meeting between matched pairs, a moment to celebrate the start of this year’s mentoring journey. Here’s to new discoveries and learning opportunities ahead!
28th October – Visiting Talking Out Residential
Talking Out is a programme for young people aged 12–18. Our CEO, Ria Bernard, will visit the October course and witness the fun and transformation firsthand! The programme combines speech and language therapy sessions with outdoor activities and group games. The residential setting is central to the experience and young people build lasting connections that extend far beyond the structured activities.
Internal Events
22nd October – ISAD panel
An online panel discussion hosted by the University of Leicester will include representatives from ASC and STAMMA (speakers TBC). This session offers an opportunity to raise awareness amongst students and faculty members at the university, sharing insights into the impact of stammering, practical strategies, and guidance on what it means to be a stammering ally.
Keep watching this space
Some activities are still taking shape, and we’re excited to share them as they come together. Follow us on social media or join our community email. You won’t want to miss what’s next!
What are you doing this ISAD?
We’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re planning an event, fundraising, or starting a conversation, we want to celebrate your efforts. Tag us on social media or drop us an email with what you’re doing to raise awareness on this year’s ISAD.
Get in touch: [email protected]