Stroke Association to provide more vital support in the Highlands

The Stroke Association has been awarded funding by the RS Macdonald Charitable Trust for its first Engagement Officer for the Highlands to expand its support in the more rural and remote areas and recruit volunteers who can help stroke survivors to make the best possible recovery.

Richard Van de Peer from Strontian recently joined the Stroke Association’s Scotland team and, for the next two years, he will be developing the support available for stroke survivors and their loved ones in rural areas. He brings with him a good grounding in the NHS and mental health services, having been a community link worker and an ambulance technician.

Richard said: “I’m genuinely excited to get underway in my role as the Stroke Association’s Engagement Officer for the Highlands. The charity does vital work in supporting people to rebuild their lives after stroke, and I’m proud to be part of a team that makes such a meaningful difference every day.

“The Highlands is a diverse, resilient region, and I’m particularly looking forward to helping Highlanders join us as volunteers. Many of our current volunteers are stroke survivors themselves and peer support can be an incredibly powerful part of recovery.”

It is estimated that there are almost 10,500 people living with the effects of stroke in the Highlands.1 In addition, the Scottish Stroke Improvement Programme Annual Report 2025 shows that 746 people in the NHS Highland area had a stroke in 20242 with around 450 people left with a disability and many experiencing poor mental health.

John Watson, Associate Director for the Stroke Association in Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be working with Richard in this new role for the Stroke Association. Stroke is the biggest cause of adult disability in Scotland, leaving many stroke survivors unable to move, see, speak, or even swallow. But, with the right support, recovery is possible.

“The Stroke Association provides a wealth of support online, by phone and in communities, but there’s so much more we can do to reach people in the Highlands. Richard will be a tremendous addition to our team, connecting with communities, partners and healthcare professionals to expand our footprint in this vast, glorious area.”

The RS Macdonald Charitable Trust’s mission is to support beneficiary charities to achieve their purpose. It awarded the Stroke Association funds for a two-year post to expand its support in the Highlands and explore how best to deliver assistance in rural and remote areas.

Rachel Campbell, Director of The RS Macdonald Charitable Trust, said: “The Trust welcomed this funding request as we know that there is much need in Highland for stroke survivors, and we wish Richard the very best as he starts in this new role. No-one should end up isolated after a stroke and our hope is that volunteers build a community to bring creative and meaningful opportunities that help people rebuild their lives.”

Anyone interested in volunteering with the Stroke Association in the Highlands, can email Richard at engagementteamscotland@stroke.org.uk

Notes to Editors