Stroke survivors in Guernsey to benefit from new Communication Club and community support opportunities

Stroke survivors in Guernsey to benefit from new Communication Club and community support opportunities

Stroke survivors and their families in Guernsey will soon have more opportunities to connect with others and access vital peer support, thanks to new initiatives from the Stroke Association, working with UnLtd and Health Connections.

From Thursday 18 September a brand-new weekly ‘Communication Club’ will launch at the Ron Short Centre, running every Thursday from 2pm to 3.30pm. Alysa Rixon, the local Stroke Association engagement officer, said: “The group is specifically designed to support people living with aphasia, a communication difficulty which can affect speaking, understanding, reading, and writing after a stroke.”

Around one in three stroke survivors experience aphasia. Aphasia does not affect intelligence, but it can be deeply frustrating and isolating. With practice and support, many people with aphasia see improvements in their communication over time.

The Communication Club will be run by UnLtd, together with the Stroke Association.

Dr Rob Harnish, managing director of UnLtd said: “We’re delighted to be collaborating with the Stroke Association to launch the new Communication Club at the Ron Short Centre. Stroke survivors with aphasia often feel cut off from everyday life. This group will provide an informal, safe and supportive place to meet others and practice communicating. Together, we can help to rebuild confidence, one conversation at a time.”

Speech and language therapist Ailsa Cleveland said: “The Communication Club is such a valuable space for people with aphasia. It provides a safe and welcoming environment where communication can be practised in meaningful, everyday ways. Members have the opportunity to strengthen their skills, increase confidence, develop independence, and make connections with others.”

In addition, the Le Marchant Stroke Café will continue as a regular monthly drop-in at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital. Held in the dining room of Le Marchant Ward on the third Wednesday of every month, 3pm–4pm, the café offers a welcoming place for stroke survivors and their families to meet others who understand what they are going through.

From 30 September, stroke survivors and their relatives will also be able to join the Health Connections Talking Café at Waitrose, Rohais, every Tuesday 10am–11.30am. This will provide another opportunity to connect socially in the community and learn more about support available on the recovery journey.

Bella Farrell, CEO for Health Connections said: “Community connection is at the heart of recovery, and we’re pleased to welcome stroke survivors and their families to our Talking Café at Waitrose, Rohais. Sharing experiences with others who understand can make all the difference – both emotionally and practically”.

Alysa Rixon, the local Stroke Association engagement officer, said: “These groups build on the Stroke Association’s commitment to ensure that every stroke survivor has access to the emotional and practical support they need to rebuild their lives. Research shows that peer support is a vital part of recovery, helping people adjust to life after stroke, reduce isolation, and regain independence.”

The Stroke Association provides a wide range of information and guidance for Guernsey residents via www.stroke.org.uk, including an online forum, downloadable resources, and the Stroke Support Helpline 0303 3033 100.

Guernsey residents can follow the new Stroke Association Guernsey Facebook page for updates on peer support groups, events and other local developments.