Chartwell House Champions Stroke Awareness and Support for Survivors

Chartwell House Care Home hosted a successful Stroke Awareness Day, led by the Stroke Association, to educate, empower, and support stroke survivors. With powerful stories, expert training, and the launch of the Thanet Stroke Support Group, the event reinforced the importance of positive recovery and ongoing community support.

Raising awareness and offering support for stroke survivors were at the heart of Chartwell House Care Home’s recent Stroke Awareness Day, led in collaboration with the Stroke Association. Held on Tuesday, 28th January, the event welcomed over 20 attendees, including healthcare professionals, speech and language therapists, NHS stroke specialists, and stroke survivors, fostering an environment of learning, empathy, and empowerment.

Stroke survivors shared their personal journeys, offering powerful perspectives on recovery. One survivor expressed that, following their stroke, the emphasis had been on what they might no longer be able to do, rather than what they could still achieve. Their words struck a chord with NHS professionals, highlighting the importance of a more positive and supportive approach to post-stroke care. Discussions focused on recognising stroke symptoms, understanding long-term effects, and ensuring access to vital resources that empower individuals on their recovery journeys.

As the driving force behind the event, the Stroke Association provided invaluable training, helping participants deepen their understanding of stroke recovery and the ways in which care teams can offer meaningful support. Lynn Vincent, Engagement Officer for the South East, praised the initiative, stating, “I just wanted to say a massive thank you for hosting the stroke awareness day yesterday. The training was so relevant for the team, and the afternoon was a great success too. Thank you again for all your support with stroke survivors.”

The commitment to stroke awareness doesn’t stop here. Chartwell House is proud to host the Thanet Stroke Support Group, in partnership with the Stroke Association from February 2025 ensuring that stroke survivors and their families have a welcoming space to share experiences, build friendships, and find continued support. Chosen for its strong ethos of compassionate care and community engagement, Chartwell House will host the group on the second Tuesday of every month from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM, with refreshments available for a small contribution of £3 per person.

Reflecting on the impact of the event, Jude Coveney, Admissions Manager at Chartwell House, shared, “The day was an incredible opportunity to listen and learn from stroke survivors. Their stories were deeply moving, and I believe everyone in attendance, including NHS professionals, left with a greater appreciation of the challenges survivors face. We are committed to continuing this important work and fostering an inclusive and supportive community.”

For more information about the Thanet Stroke Support Group or to learn more about stroke awareness, please contact Chartwell House at 01843 260 970.