Goal B: Ensure that everyone affected by stroke has access to the rehabilitation and lifelong support they need
One third of stroke survivors feel abandoned when they leave hospital. Many don't have adequate access to quality therapies and rehabilitation, and only one third have a follow-up review. Consequently, stroke survivors and their carers often report high levels of unmet emotional and psychological need.
The support from the Stroke Association has given me a lifeline to live independently.
Emma Raven, stroke survivor, volunteer and campaigner
Why did we make this our goal?
Stroke survivors are caught in a postcode lottery - where they live determines whether or not they'll receive adequate rehabilitation and support. This could include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy, as well as help and advice to get back into education or work, peer support and social activities.
The quality, intensity and promptness of rehabilitation is directly linked to improved outcomes and reduced long-term costs. People supported to make a good recovery are less likely to require welfare support and social care, and less likely to re-enter the health and care system at its most expensive point - in hospital. Inadequate rehabilitation undermines improvements in acute treatments.
We want to see:
- Funders and providers increase investment in research and services for rehabilitation and lifelong support.
- Everyone affected by stroke has the information they need to make informed choices about treatment, care and support which help them to take more control of their ongoing recovery and rebuild their lives.
- A range of emotional, practical and social support offers available in the community for stroke survivors and carers wherever they live.
- More people benefit from our own support offerings.