Press release -
Art after stroke: Salford stroke survivors get creative in charity workshops
A group of stroke survivors and carers from Salford have been getting creative, in a series of art therapy workshops organised by the Stroke Association.
Lead by Monton artist, Bee Morrison, the Stroke Association hosted the sessions for eight stroke survivors and carers, as part of the charity’s Life After Stroke Service in Salford.
The sessions ran for four weeks from 17 July at Elmwood Church on Eccles Old Road. Accomplished artist Bee worked with the group to create a number of pieces of art, including watercolour paintings and pencil drawings.
Maureen Tennant, 77, had a stroke in April this year, which affected the movement in her left hand side. She attended the workshops alongside her daughter-in-law and carer, Sarah Harrison, 40, who she lives with in Swinton.
Maureen said: “Before the workshops, the last time I had done any artwork was more than 60 years ago when I was back at school. I’ve found the sessions very relaxing and soothing. I’ve really enjoyed spending time with Sarah and getting to know the other group members. It’s been something to look forward to each week.”
Sarah added: “I initially came along to support Maureen but ended up getting involved myself, which I’ve really enjoyed. It’s been something nice for us to do together. We’ve enjoyed it so much that we’ve got paper and paint ready to carry on our new hobby at home.”
Dawn Dwyer, Family and Carer Support Coordinatorfrom the Stroke Association, said: “Art therapy can help stroke survivors build on their confidence and express themselves in new ways. We see the overwhelming courage and determination many stroke survivors show in coping with the loss of many things we take for granted, such as being able to say what we are feeling or walk on our own. The workshops gave our stroke survivors and carers the opportunity to express themselves through art.”
Artist Bee added: “I’ve been amazed at how quickly the group has taken to the art therapy. We’ve had lovely interaction, lots of humour and a light hearted atmosphere in the sessions. The techniques we’ve learnt are easily transferrable so our group can continue their new skills at home.”
The Stroke Association provides an Information, Advice and Support Service and Communication Support in Salford, in partnership with Salford City Council and Salford Clinical Commissioning Group.
For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.
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A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. There are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke.
Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and we’re leading a community of people to change the world for people affected by stroke. We work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. We campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can. We fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at ww.stroke.org.uk
