Stroke volunteers praised by Deputy Mayor

To coincide with ‘Volunteer Week’ which runs from 1-7 June 2014, Antrim’s Deputy Mayor, Councillor Brian Graham, has supported the Stroke Association in recognising the support and commitment received from its volunteers at a special celebration event in Antrim.

The Stroke Association is the only UK wide charity solely dedicated to combating stroke in people of all ages. Its services directly help people affected by stroke and their families and carers. It raises essential funds and sponsor research into prevention, treatment and better methods of rehabilitation. It also campaigns, educates and informs to increase knowledge and understanding of stroke at all levels of society.

Mayors from many District Council areas will be attending celebratory events at the Association’s Stroke Support Group venues across the country where they will present certificates of recognition to a number of volunteers.

The Stroke Association’s Northern Ireland Director, Tom Richardson states;

“Our organisation could not operate successfully without the volunteers who help us provide support to the thousands of stroke survivors across Northern Ireland. On behalf of the Stroke Association, I would like to publicly thank all our volunteers for their dedication, commitment and continued hard work. We are delighted that the Deputy Mayor, Brian Graham attended our Antrim event and presented certificates to the local volunteers as well as having the opportunity to meet some of our Stroke Support Group members.”

Volunteer support for the Stroke Association makes such a significant difference to not only the work of the Stroke Association but to the lives of stroke survivors and their families. There are many ways to volunteer such as being an ambassador by giving talks and help creating awareness of stroke, become a campaigner and help us lobby local government, help raise funds by organising events, share your story by becoming a media volunteer or help with transport by offering your time and car to provide safe access to group meetings and outings for stroke survivors.

Anyone over the age of 16, whatever their race or religion can volunteer. Whatever your reason for volunteering, the Stroke Association would greatly welcome your support.

For further information or to express an interest in volunteering with the Stroke Association, please contact Janice Kirkpatrick on 028 9050 8029 or email janice.kirkpatrick@stroke.org.uk