A WHITLEY community initiative is helping stroke survivors navigate the social side of their recoveries.
Reading Stroke Support Group meets every other Thursday morning at the South Reading Community Hub.
Members network with other stroke survivors, sharing anecdotes and tips over hot drinks and biscuits.
A qualified trainer also leads light exercises for mixed abilities.
“The benefit is the guys and gals manage to meet other people and get out, which they don’t otherwise do,” explained organiser Martin Harbor.
“Once they have a stroke, it’s devastating.”
Mr Harbor established the initiative, which is affiliated with the Stroke Association, 10 years ago after his wife had a stroke.
Although she was afforded medical support, he felt there was little scope for her to rebuild personal interactions.
“There was no sort of community support, so it was decided that we would try and form a group here,” he explained.
“We started with four people and now we have roughly 30.”
The Stroke Association now has a designated officer at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, who signposts those who could benefit from attending the group.
As well as providing an opportunity to chat, the group also organises activities such as bingo and day trips, recently travelling to the south coast.
The group is self-funded and primarily relies on the £1 members pay to attend sessions.
Mr Harbour described ReadiBus’ contribution in transporting members to and from sessions as “key”, with some travelling from Caversham, Southcote and Pangbourne.
The pandemic forced the group to close for two years.
Tony Freeman and Angela Addison are stroke survivors and have attended the group for six years; they felt the impact of the time away.
“You really noticed the difference during the pandemic when you had to stay indoors,” Mr Freeman said.
“We did have a WhatsApp group set up, but it wasn’t quite the same as meeting in person.
“Groups like these are really important. Neither of us have family, so it’s really important to build friendships here, it’s certainly a lifeline.”
Mr Freeman said he was encouraged to attend the support group whilst in hospital, saying: “When I was in hospital, a member of the Stroke Association came in and told me about this group.
“I thought I’d just give it a go because otherwise you’re just sitting indoors in your four walls all day.
“We’re all stroke victims so you can associate with each other. We can help each other through the difficult moments.”
The session also offers carers the opportunity to chat with other companions and relax for two hours.
Meetings take place between 10am-noon on the first and third Thursdays of each month.
For more information, contact: martinharbor@hotmail.com
