FAQs: Sources of support

Where is my local Stroke Association?

We do not have local branches as such. However, we have a range of Life After Stroke Services, which are available in many areas across England, Wales and Northern Ireland (in Scotland, we work with other organisations to develop services that meet local need).

Life After Stroke Services provide information, practical advice and emotional support to people who have had a stroke and their families and carers.

There is also a network of stroke clubs which are organised locally and independently. They offer the opportunity for people affected by stroke to get together to socialise and share their experiences.

Find out about Life After Stroke services and stroke clubs in your area.

Is the Stroke Association the only organisation that can help someone who has had a stroke?

We are the only UK wide charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages. You will find information on this site about our services, but they form just one part of a broader support network, which includes health professionals and other organisations, many of which you will find listed in our Useful links section.

Find out more about us.

I provide care for somebody who has had a stroke. But I find it very stressful sometimes. What help is available for me?

It is widely acknowledged that caring for a person who has had a stroke can be a demanding and stressful experience, and it is not unusual to find things difficult. As well as reading the information for families and carers of stroke survivors on this site, you can also contact one of the organisations dedicated to helping carers.

Your local social services are responsible not just for assessing the needs of a stroke survivor but also your needs as a carer. This might include, for example, having regular breaks from caring responsibilities. So if you have not already been in contact with social services, you should contact them as soon as possible.

What about financial help for people who’ve had a stroke, are they entitled to any benefits?

There is financial help available, but the benefits system is complex and it changes frequently so it can be difficult to work out what help a person can apply for. In fact many people are not aware they can get help or are not claiming all the help they are entitled to.

Can I get paid from my employer after my stroke?

If you have to have time off sick from work following your stroke you may be entitled to be paid by your employer. Whether you are eligible, how much and for how long will depend on the contract you signed. If you have any questions about sick pay it would be best to discuss these with your employer.

What is Statutory Sick Pay?

If you are not eligible to claim sick pay from your employer or this has run out then you may be able to claim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). There are a number of factors that determine whether you are able to claim this. Your age, how much you earn, and how long you have worked for your employer are all contributing factors.

What is Disability Living Allowance?

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a benefit payable at different rates to those under the age of 65 years who need help with their personal care and/or have problems with mobility. The payments for DLA are split into two components, the care component and the mobility component.

What is Employment and Support Allowance?

Employment Support Allowance (ESA) can be claimed if you are unable to work due to illness or disability.  In order to be eligible you must also be under state pension age and your SSP must have ended. There are two types of ESA, it can either be contribution based (if you have paid enough national insurance contributions) or income related (if you have a low income).

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance (AA) is a benefit for people aged over 65 years of age who have a disability that is severe enough for them to need help caring for themselves or need someone to supervise them. It is paid at two rates, the lower and higher rates. Usually you must have had these care or supervision needs for at least six months before you can receive AA.

Can carers get financial support?

If you are over 16 years of age and care for someone for 35 hours or more per week and they are claiming Attendance Allowance (AA), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or certain elements of Constant Attendance Allowance (CAA) then you may be entitled to claim Carer's Allowance (CA).

You should also make sure that you and the person you care for have had a full benefits check. For information about what you may be entitled to, see our Financial support section or contact one of the organisations that provide legal and financial support.

It is always best to get expert advice so you don’t miss out on support that is available. Our resource sheet Benefits and financial assistance will be useful, but you can also contact the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 88 22 000. 

Organisations such as your local Citizens Advice Bureau can provide further advice on claiming benefits and how to get help with filling out forms, if needed.