As Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) Awareness Day approaches on 16 October, an Alloa mum is using her London Marathon journey to shine a spotlight on a condition that affects around two children in every classroom but remains widely misunderstood.

Kayleigh Coutts recently completed the Glasgow Half Marathon alongside her sister Jade, completing 13.1 miles and officially beginning her fundraising journey for Speech and Language UK. Now her sights are set on her next challenge – the 2027 London Marathon.

She admits she never expected to be offered a London place but, having already signed up for Glasgow, decided it was the perfect opportunity to start her fundraising efforts for London early.

“Now that’s complete, my focus is fully on London,” she said.

However, the marathon is about far more than running. The challenge holds special significance for Kayleigh as her son James has Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), a lifelong condition that affects how people understand and use language.

“I chose Speech and Language UK because the cause is incredibly close to my heart,” she said. “Having watched James navigate his own challenges with DLD and having seen first-hand the difference that speech and language support can make, I wanted to do something to give back while helping more people understand the condition.”

Speech and Language UK support children and young people with speech, language and communication needs by providing information and resources for families, schools and professionals, while campaigning to improve awareness and access to support. Although many people have never heard of DLD, its impact can be significant. For James, it is not about an inability to speak. Rather, it affects how he understands, processes and uses language, influencing many areas of learning and everyday life.

As educational demands have increased, James has experienced challenges with reading, literacy, numeracy, understanding information and expressing his thoughts. Yet Kayleigh says what stands out most is not the difficulties he faces, but the determination with which he tackles them.

She explained “Things that might come more easily to other children can take James more time, effort and support. But what makes me incredibly proud is how hard he works. He doesn’t give up when something is difficult, and he continues to learn, achieve and push himself every day.”

Kayleigh says receiving a diagnosis and accessing support helped her family better understand James’ needs and the challenges he experiences. Through support from NHS Forth Valley Speech and Language Therapy and staff within his school community, the family developed a better understanding of DLD and the strategies that help James succeed.

“The support we’ve had has made a huge difference. I know how important speech and language services are for children and families, and that’s another reason why supporting this charity means so much to me.”

She hopes sharing her family’s experience through her fundraising journey will encourage more people to learn about DLD and the difference the right support can make.

“One of the biggest reasons I’m doing this is to raise awareness as well as funds,” she said. “If sharing our story helps even a few more people understand DLD, then that’s something I’m really happy to do.”

While the thought of a marathon remains daunting, Kayleigh says she will draw inspiration from her son throughout the months of training ahead.

“There will be early mornings, long training runs, sore legs and plenty of moments when I’ll wonder why I signed up!” she laughed. “But when training gets tough, I’ll think about James and the effort he puts in every day and remind myself to keep going.”

Having successfully completed the Glasgow Half Marathon, Kayleigh is already looking ahead to the next stage of the challenge. As preparations continue for the 2027 London Marathon, she hopes her efforts will not only raise vital funds for Speech and Language UK but also start conversations about DLD and the experiences of children and young people living with the condition.

“Every mile I run is for James,” she said, “and for the millions of children whose voices deserve to be heard.”

DLD Awareness Day takes place each October and is a worldwide campaign to improve awareness and understanding of Developmental Language Disorder, highlight the experiences of people with DLD, and raise awareness of the support that can help them thrive.