Those affected by stroke and their families are able to access information, support and advice as artwork and signposts in the Ulster Hospital Stroke Unit have been unveiled by the Stroke Association Northern Ireland. The Stroke Unit is the first facility in the United Kingdom to have this artwork installed.
The artwork is a vivid illustration of the experiences of stroke survivors. This will feature alongside details of how others can get vital support in the area from the Stroke Association as the charity provides communication and emotional wellbeing support services
Anyone can have a stroke, even children and its impact is traumatic. Over 4,000 people survive a stroke every year in Northern Ireland, but surviving a stroke is just the start of a long and gruelling recovery journey. The Stroke Association is the leading stroke specific charity providing lifelong support for stroke survivors and their families.
Nicola Shaw, from Ballygowan had a stroke in December 2022.
“I had a minor stroke, but it had a major impact on me and my family’s life. It was a very scary time, and my world changed in an instant.
“The information and support you receive in hospital sets the tone for your continuing recovery journey. Having information available from the Stroke Association at this early crucial stage of recovery, I think is key in enabling stroke patients to have early access to support, both for themselves and their families.”
Nicola continued, “To have that stroke community and to have that shared experience and people who can support you and people who can signpost you to these support services, I think will make such a difference. I know it means such a difference to me.”
Penny Graham, Stroke Improvement Lead at the South Eastern Trust, said the team were “delighted” to have the Stroke Association represented on the ward through the installation of the wall graphics. “These will help to motivate patients on the ward who will be on their own journey to recovery. Patients and carers can visibly see the support and advice available to them at a glance.”
South Eastern Trust Chairman Jonathan Patton shared how the change in the Stroke Ward aesthetic now acts as, “Something that not just looks welcoming but actually has help, support and has the follow on for patients once they leave us here at the hospital ward.”
Alasdair O’Hara, Northern Ireland Director at the Stroke Association, said, “Life after stroke can be daunting and we want to make sure that stroke survivors and their loved ones know about all the support that is out there when they’re in hospital and planning their return home.”
“The Stroke Association provides lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their loved ones. We’re here to help stroke survivors find strength through our support. It’s been great to work with the staff at the three hospitals to ensure everyone who needs our support knows where they can get it.”
Mr O’Hara described how the installations will make a difference to patients on the Stroke Ward. “The Ulster Hospital is the first site we have delivered in the United Kingdom. We are confident that it will improve that journey out of hospital and into the community for stroke survivors, by providing access to information and also making it easier to access long term support services after you leave hospital.”
