Deeside Stroke Group receives funding to help people affected by stroke

Deeside Stroke Group - a Stroke Association Voluntary Group – has been awarded a grant of £7500 by the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership (AHSCP) to rebuild its funds and replace equipment damaged during the pandemic.

The group, based in a large rural area to the west of Aberdeen, plugs a significant gap in health and social care locally by offering specialist exercise classes for stroke survivors, who often live in remote locations.

Eric Sinclair, Group Chair, said:

"Its loss would be disastrous for people recovering from the physical and emotional effects of stroke, and we are extremely grateful for the support of the AHSCP, without which our future would be in serious doubt."

The group had to abandon face-to-face classes and access to the community gym for almost two years after the first lockdown began. They managed to continue in a limited way by offering classes online, thanks to their physiotherapist, Anna Bichard, but with income much reduced.

Face-to-face classes have now resumed, with appropriate safety measures in place. Stroke survivors in the Deeside or Donside areas who feel they might benefit from the classes are welcome to join. Costs are kept as low as possible. If you are interested to find out more about this group, please call 07442 502574. Information is also available on stroke.org.uk