New activity coordinators enhance care at specialist stroke rehabilitation centre

2nd April 2019

Stroke survivors' recovery has been further enhanced with a dedicated activity programme by two new staff members paid for by donations to Sheffield Hospitals Charity.

Therapists Margaret (Mags) Kelly and Christine Cryan were recruited in to the Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation Centre to provide activities for stroke patients, which complement the specialist care already provided by the stroke team. Their work at the Norfolk Park facility- from art classes and baking to tai-chi and writing- aims to help patients to regain their confidence after a stroke by building up their socialisation and collaborative skills, whilst promoting their sense of belonging, empowerment and mental wellbeing. Mags said: -Since starting our roles we have developed a programme of activities throughout the week that patients can get involved with. -The activities are accessible for all stroke survivors. The effects of stroke are very individual in nature, and as such, each patient faces unique challenges, which can be of a physical, cognitive, social or emotional nature. Their ability to communicate can also be impacted. -Many people struggle after having a stroke and can feel isolated and experience depression and anxiety; alongside the physical problems they may have which can hamper their recovery. -Through patient feedback and our own experience, we have already seen what a difference these groups can make; many patients citing a real difference in mood, feeling uplifted by the end of the session. The new Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation Centre, run by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, offers dedicated 24/7 specialist rehabilitation and support to patients who have suffered a stroke at a critical point in their recovery. Thanks to donations, Sheffield Hospitals Charity has been able to fund Mags and Christine's roles, enabling them to play an important part in the recovery of the patients. Patients are invited to get involved with various groups such as art and music therapy, peer support, learning new hobbies and generally increasing participation and confidence. These activities also give patients the skills to increase their quality of their life after stroke. Christine said: -Without funding from Sheffield Hospitals Charity our role would not exist. We work closely with the specialist stroke team and support recovery from both the physical, emotional and social aspects of the stroke. -We aim to understand the patients and their family's needs and as such, supports patients to achieve their goals, both therapeutic and more personal ones. -We enjoy interacting with our patients and seeing them enjoying themselves -By encouraging them to engage in activities during their stay, we hope to inspire them to continue to be active once they leave here. To donate to enhance the care of stroke patients, visit www.sheffieldhosptialscharity.org.uk/donate https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UIlJhR_5b4