Miss Kate Milford, of Tauranga, MNZM for services to people with aphasia
Miss Kate Milford was the single driving force behind the creation, development and governance of Aphasia New Zealand Charitable Trust, providing support to those living with or affected by aphasia, a language disorder resulting from brain injury. She remains involved as Trustee and Secretary. She has been key to organising a biennial international conference to share knowledge about aphasia. She has devised a range of innovative services and programmes, including leading a unique New Zealand-wide team and network of Community Aphasia Advisors, who offer individualised support, education and advocacy. Other programmes include informal peer-led support groups, educational resources and online training, and a device loan scheme for therapy exercises.