The Stroke Association comes to Scotland

The Stroke Association held an event this week to mark the opening of their office in Leith. Malcolm Chisholm, MSP for Edinburgh North and Leith attending the event was invited to officially 'cut the ribbon' with Averil Mansfield, Chairman of The Stroke Association.

The decision to open an office follows The Stroke Association's mission to go UK-wide and to bring added value to the stroke field and raise its profile.

The opening of The Stroke Association's Scottish office builds on its long-standing role in funding stroke research in Scotland. Its presence in Scotland will allow the charity to pursue its aim of preventing stroke and ensuring that all those touched by stroke get the help they need. Going UK-Wide also brings benefits of sharing successes and learnings across the UK.

Maddy Halliday, Director Scotland for The Stroke Association said:

"Stroke is a major cause of ill-health in Scotland; it has one of the highest rates of stroke in the world. We want to identify the unmet needs of those affected by stroke in Scotland and address ways in which we can help and provide support.

"We will strive to free stroke of its 'cinderella' status and give it the attention it deserves through activities developed in a positive and collaborative relationship with other stakeholders, including Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland."

For further information please contact the Scottish Office on 0131 555 7244.

Notes to editor

1. The Stroke Association is the only national charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages. The charity funds research into prevention, treatment, better methods of rehabilitation and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its community services which include a communication support service, family and carer support service, information services, welfare grants, publications and leaflets. The Stroke Association also campaigns, educates and informs to increase knowledge of stroke at all levels of society acting as a voice for everyone affected by stroke.

2. A stroke is a brain equivalent of a heart attack. A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST - Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech Problems, Test all three. If these symptoms are present call an ambulance straight away.

3. The Stroke Helpline provides information on stroke to the general public and is open between 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday on 0845 3033 100.

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