Communication Support Service

It is very common for a stroke to affect a person’s communication skills - the ability to speak, understand what people are saying, read and write. This difficulty in using language is called dysphasia (or aphasia).



Dysphasia is frustrating for people who have had a stroke and their families. If needs, wishes and feelings can’t be communicated properly, it can affect everyone’s morale and slow down the person’s rehabilitation.



Our Communication Support Co-ordinators and trained volunteers work with people who have had a stroke and their families on aspects of communication. The aim is to build up confidence and achieve the best possible level of recovery and independence in language skills.



How is the service provided?
Usually people are referred to the service through speech and language therapists, but you can also contact the service directly. The Communication Support Co-ordinator will visit the person and their family to assess their needs and discuss what is appropriate. This might involve:

• regular home visits by trained volunteers to work on communication skills;
• weekly group meetings with other people;
• activities and events to help people socialise and gain confidence; and
• carers’ groups to support families and carers.

Communication Support Services are funded by local health and social service authorities. Unfortunately, not all authorities pay for the service, so it is only available in certain areas. Find out if the service is available near you.

Links
Stroke Information Service
Family and Carer Support Service
Stroke clubs
Welfare grants
Research
Campaigns
How you can help

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