People who lose the power of speech after suffering a stroke can receive help and support under a new scheme jointly arranged by the council and local primary care trust.

The council and NHS Wandsworth have teamed up with specialist charity Connect to offer a new range of services to people who suffer from aphasia.

Aphasia, which often occurs after stroke, leaves people struggling to communicate. Some people can’t speak at all, while others can only speak a few words. It can lead to depression and feelings of isolation.

The aim of the new initiative is to give people suffering from this condition a new purpose in life, by discovering new opportunities and promoting confidence in their conversation skills.

A new befriending service will create a network of long-term aphasia sufferers who can offer help, friendship and support to those who suddenly find themselves stricken with the condition.

Sufferers will also have the chance of joining a special 'hub' which will act in an advisory
role to a range of public bodies to ensure these agencies provide fit and proper services for
people with aphasia. People can also attend conversation groups or receive help from specially trained volunteers within their own home.

Sally McVicker, Director of Services at Connect said:
"We are delighted to be providing this service for people with aphasia in Wandsworth. At the heart of the concept is people with aphasia supporting others with aphasia. We’ve shown it works in other areas and importantly it’s offering a service in line with the guidelines of the National Stroke Strategy."

This year 130,000 people in the UK will have a stroke. One-third of those who survive will have
aphasia. There are currently about 250,000 people with aphasia in the UK.

 

June 1, 2010