Stroke Services Engagement report

Healthwatch organisations across West Yorkshire and Harrogate engaged with stroke survivors, carers and members of the public to inform plans for redesigning stroke services. Overall, respondents supported access to specialist hyper-acute stroke care and were willing to travel further if this improved outcomes and ensured access to expert treatment around the clock. 

While acute stroke care was generally rated positively, concerns were raised about delays in A&E, occasional admission to non-specialist wards and variations in access to specialist support. Respondents were particularly worried that reducing the number of specialist stroke units could lead to longer journeys for patients and visitors. 

The strongest feedback related to rehabilitation and recovery. Many people reported delays in accessing physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and emotional support after discharge. Participants wanted rehabilitation services to be delivered closer to home, alongside better communication between services and stronger support for carers and families. 

Overall, the engagement found support for more specialised acute stroke services, provided they were matched by accessible local rehabilitation, better discharge planning and improved long-term support for stroke survivors and carers. Respondents also called for greater public awareness of stroke prevention and symptoms.