Shropshire & Staffordshire Heart and Stroke Network
A resource for patients, carers, family & friends affected by stroke
Directory of Services in Shropshire
Introduction
In Shropshire over 800 people have a stroke each year, and many thousands are living with some of the effects of stroke.
The number of people caring for stroke survivors is difficult to estimate as not all of them identify themselves as a carer.
The large number of people trying to live their lives following the effects of stroke has led to the production of this directory. It has been compiled by The Heart and Stroke Network with the help of stroke survivors, carers and some of the staff who work in stroke services.
It contains the details of some of the organisations who can offer you help, advice and support in all aspects of stroke care
2 Do you need help and support right now?
We know that many patients leave hospital without adequate information which can make you feel anxious and afraid. This directory may not be of use to you at this moment in time and it maybe just too much in- formation for you, but it may be of some help in the future so please keep it in a safe place. If you need information and support now then we’ve given you telephone numbers of national organisations that can help and that provide information and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
NHS Direct 0845 4647 Samaritans 08457 90 90 90
3 Contents
Driving 6
Equipment 16
Finance & Benefits 20 £
Going on Holiday 27
Getting back to work 30 Healthy Eating 33
Legal Issues 34
Mobility 35
Physiotherapy 41
Relationships & Sexuality 44
Speech & Language 46
Support Groups 47
Transport 58
4 Contents continued…..
Information ‘Just For You!’
Patient & Carer Stories 67
Other organisations & 74 support
NHS Organisations 92
Personal Information 96
Have Your Say! 104
Useful Websites 111
5 Driving If you have suffered a stroke, no matter how mild, you must always seek advice from your doctor before driving again. You may need to tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You must inform your insurance company, even if your doctor has told you that you can drive.
DVLA Drivers Medical Unit
Drivers Medical Unit DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1TU
0870 600 0301 Monday to Friday, 08:15 - 16:30
Website: www.direct.gov.uk
6 Blue Badge Scheme The Blue Badge scheme is for people with severe mobility problems. It allows Blue Badge holders to park close to where they need to go. The scheme operates throughout the UK and is managed by local authorities, who deal with applications and issue Blue Badges.
The Government announced on 14 February 2011 a major programme of reforms to the Blue Badge scheme. The reform programme has been developed in consultation with disabled people, local authorities and other stakeholders, and on the basis of research and economic analysis.
Blue Badge Reform Programme - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the scheme being reformed?
Few changes have been made to the Blue Badge scheme in England since it was established in the 1970s. It needs to be reformed to reduce current problems, deal with future challenges and help ensure that disabled people have fair and equal access to the benefits the concession offers regardless of an inefficient service delivery by some local authorities.
7 Blue Badge Scheme Current problems include high levels of abuse and misuse of badges, increasing demand for badges and pressures to extend eligibility, inconsistent administration and assessment and inefficient service delivery by some local authorities.
Q: What changes are you making to the fee?
Under current legislation, local authorities can charge a badge fee of up to £2 for those whose applications are successful. This fee is payable on issue of a badge (not on application) and has not changed since 1983. The legislation will be changed so that local authorities can charge successful applicants up to a maximum of £10. It will still be for local authorities to decide the fee that will be payable locally.
Q: Will you be updating your guidance for local authori- ties?
Yes. Good practice, web-based, non statutory guidance was issued in spring 2011. It supports the implementation of other measures in the reform programme and will be updated to reflect these other measures as they are delivered. The guidance will cover all aspects of the Blue Badge scheme including applications, assessments and enforcement principles.
8 Blue Badge Scheme Who can have a Blue Badge Anyone over two years old automatically qualifies for a Blue Badge if they are either:
registered blind receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or a War Pensioner's Mobility Supplement
People who may need to have an assessment Anyone over two years old may be eligible for a Blue Badge, if they either: have a permanent and substantial disability which means they cannot walk, or makes walking very difficult drive a motor vehicle regularly and have a severe disability in both arms, making it very difficult or impossible to operate parking meters
How to apply for a Blue Badge Local councils are responsible for issuing Blue Badge parking permits. Contact your council to apply for a Blue Badge. They will send you an application form which you will need to fill in and return with two recent passport-sized photographs of yourself. Some councils charge an application fee. You may be able to apply online for a Blue Badge through your local council's website.
9 Blue Badge Scheme If you are refused a Blue Badge You cannot appeal against the council or Department for Transport (DfT) if you're refused a Blue Badge. But, you may ask the council to reconsider your case if you don't think all the important information was considered when they made their decision. You can also re-apply if you feel that your mobility problems have become more serious since a previous assessment.
The Blue Badge Service for Shropshire
The Lantern Meadow Farm Drive Sundorne Shrewsbury SY1 4NG
0345 678 9014
Website: www.shropshire.gov.uk/disability
There is a 24 page application form available to download from the website—if you need any assistance please contact them on the number above.
10 Blue Badge Scheme The Blue Badge Service for Telford
Telford & Wrekin no longer charge for new applications or renewals of the Blue Badge
The Blue Badge Team Telford & Wrekin Council Telford Shropshire TF3 4LF
01952 383838
Website: www.telford.gov.uk
Please note: Parking Fees may still apply on car parks even if you have a Blue Badge. Please check before leaving your car.
11 Driving Assessment Centres Driving assessment centres specialise in providing assess- ments for people who want to return to driving with a disability or following a debilitating illness. They help people to maintain independence through mobility. They have centres in Birmingham, Cannock, Oxford, Northampton and Hull.
The fee for a driving assessment is subsidised, currently £80. The fee for a passenger assessment is again subsidised, currently from £20. All fees are stated on the Application Form which is available to download from their website www.rdac.co.uk .
Why a driving assessment?
It will give you confidence that you are safe on the road in a safe environment All of the vehicles used have dual controls They can give you help and advice about adaptations that may help you to continue to drive
12 Driving Assessment Centres Birmingham Unit 11, Network Park, Duddeston Mill Road, Birmingham B8 1AU.
Cannock Cannock Chase Hospital, Brunswick Road, Cannock, WS11 5XY.
North Wales Disability Resources Centre, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire LL18 5UJ.
Northampton Hardingstone Village Hall, High Street, Hardingstone, North- ampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 6DA
Hull Highlands Health Centre, Lothian Way, Bransholme, HU7 5DD.
Oxford Unit A, Anvil Court, Stanton Harcourt Road, Eynsham, Oxford, OX29 4UD
Email: [email protected] Website: www.rdac.co.uk
13 Motability Buying and adapting a car can be expensive. The Motability Scheme - run by the independent charity Motability - gives disabled people the opportunity to lease a car at an affordable price.
How the scheme works
The Motability Scheme can help you with leasing a car if you're getting either the:
War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Even if you do not drive yourself, you can apply for a car as a passenger and propose two other people as your drivers. You can also apply for a car on behalf of a child aged three or over. The child must be entitled to the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance.
Eligibility for the Motability Scheme is based on people being in receipt of either the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC of DLA) or the War Pen- sioners’ Mobility Supplement. People who do not already re- ceive the HRMC of DLA are not able to apply for it after the age of 65, but anyone who already has it can join the Scheme regardless of their age.
14 Motability Contact Motability
To find out more about the Motability Scheme, contact Motability on the numbers below, or visit their website.
0845 456 4566 (8.30am till 5.30pm Monday to Friday)
Minicom: 0845 675 0009
Website: www.motability.co.uk
For general enquiries about the Car Scheme please contact:
Motability Operations City Gate House 22 Southwark Bridge Road London SE1 9HB
15 Equipment
Specialist equipment and adaptations can make it much easi- er for you to live independently in your own home. The equip- ment available ranges from large equipment like stair lifts and hoists to smaller gadgets designed for people with specific disabilities.
A wide range of gadgets and devices are available that make everyday tasks easier for people with specific disabilities.
Some examples are:
clamps and holders to keep jars stable so they can be opened with one hand talking kitchen scales for people who are blind or visually impaired alarm clocks that vibrate under the pillow for deaf and hearing impaired people kettle tippers for people who have limited arm strength or restricted movement devices that remind people with memory loss or learning disabilities to do a daily task, for example taking a pill
16 Equipment
Large items or permanent fixtures
If you're physically disabled you may need to get equipment and have permanent fixtures installed at home so that you can live there independently. Especially if you use a wheelchair.
Examples of equipment and adaptations include: stair lifts ceiling hoists powered or manual height-adjustable beds powered leg-lifters for people who have difficulty lifting their legs into bed
You may also need to have adaptation work done in your home - for example, having doorways widened or a ramp installed.
Occupational therapists Occupational therapists can give specific advice about individual items of disability equipment. They can also be helpful if you've recently become disabled and are unsure what equipment you may need.
17 Equipment
You can find an occupational therapist through the social ser- vices department of your local council. They can visit you at home and help you decide what equipment is right for your lifestyle.
Help from Disabled Living Centres Disabled Living Centres offer disabled people the chance to try out a wide range of equipment. They also offer free, independent advice about what products are available, how much they cost and where to get them. Assist UK, which leads the UK-wide network of Disabled Liv- ing Centres, can give you up-to-date information about your nearest centre.
The Assist UK website has an online search facility, or you can contact them by phone/text phone.
Telephone: 0870 770 2866 Text phone: 0870 770 5813
18 Equipment
Remap—custom made equipment for people with disabilities.
Remap is a charity, working through a nationwide network of volunteers. They use their ingenuity and skills to help people with disabilities to achieve much-desired independence in some aspect of their lives, or to enjoy leisure opportunities previously closed to them.
Remap’s unique pieces of special equipment are tailor-made by volunteer experts and given free to the people who need them. Because, as well as being inventive and skilful, they also care about people in their local communities who have disabilities – even a combination of them - which mainstream services have not been able to counteract.
Remap Head Office 0845 1300 456 D9 Chaucer Business Park Kemsing, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 6YU
Local Contacts Steve Bloor Tel: 01743 340237 Shropshire Vicky Evans Tel: 01952 810355
Local Contacts Mrs V Denne Tel: 01889 881130 Mid Staffordshire Peter Chandler Tel: 01283 791832
19 Finance & Benefits £
Employment and Support Allowance
You may be able to get Employment and Support Allowance if you have an illness or disability that affects your ability to work.
You may be able to claim Employment and Support Allowance if any of the following apply to you:
your Statutory Sick Pay has ended, or you cannot get it you are self employed or unemployed you have been getting Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and have not gone back to work for your employer because you have an illness or disability which affects your ability to work you are under State Pension age
20 Finance & Benefits £
Employment and Support Allowance
You must also either: have had an illness or disability which affects your ability to work for at least four days in a row (including week- ends and public holidays)
be unable to work for two or more days out of seven consecutive days
be getting special medical treatment
If you are aged between 16 and 20 (or under 25 if you were in education or training at least three months immediately before turning 20), you must:
have been too ill to work because of an illness or disabil- ity for at least 28 weeks (this limitation only applies to contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance, but you may still be eligible for income-based Employ- ment and Support Allowance)
have been too ill to work before you turned 20 (or 25 if you were in education or training at least three months immediately before turning 20)
21 Finance & Benefits £
Employment and Support Allowance
How to claim Employment and Support Allowance
You can claim Employment and Support Allowance by tel- ephone, text phone or by downloading a claim form.
Claiming by telephone or text phone
If you claim Employment and Support Allowance by telephone or text phone an adviser at the contact centre will: go though the application with you fill in the form You will not have to fill in any forms yourself Lines are open Monday to Friday, from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm.
Contact centre numbers
Telephone: 0800 055 6688 Text phone: 0800 023 4888
You can also make your claim in Welsh. Telephone: 0800 012 1888
22 Finance & Benefits £
Carer’s Allowance
Carer's Allowance is a benefit to help people who look after someone who is disabled. You don't have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for. Find out who can get Carer's Allowance and how to claim.
You can claim Carer's Allowance if you are aged 16 or over and spend at least 35 hours a week caring for the same rela- tive, friend or neighbour. They should be receiving, for exam- ple, Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance (at the middle or highest rate for personal care).
How to claim Carer’s Allowance
Just fill in the claim form. Although it may look rather long, please do not be put off. It will not take you as long as you think to fill in and you may not have to answer all the ques- tions. If your answer to a question is No, you must tick the No box. Please do not just leave it blank. This will help us deal with your claim more quickly.
If you have problems filling in the claim form, someone can do it for you. You can ask a friend, or an advice centre like the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.
23 Finance & Benefits
£ Carer’s Allowance You must sign the declaration on the claim form after check- ing that what you have told us on the form is complete and correct.
You can also claim Carer’s Allowance or tell us about chang- es of circumstances online using our easy step-by-step form.
To find out more visit www.direct.gov.uk/carers
24 Finance & Benefits £
Benefit Enquiry Line
Contact details for the Benefit Enquiry Line which provides advice and information for disabled people and carers on the range of benefits available.
The person taking your call will not have your personal papers but will be able to give you general advice.
Warbreck House Warbreck Hill Road Blackpool FY2 0YE
Freephone 0800 882 200
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.direct.gov.uk/disability-money
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 6.30 pm
25 Finance & Benefits £
Advice 4 U
Do you need independent advice and support about claiming Benefits to help cover the hidden costs of living with a disability and/or a long term medical condition, or do you know someone who does?
A4U Louise House Roman Road Meole Brace Shrewsbury SY3 9JN
Advice Line 0845 602 5561
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.a4u.org.uk
26 Going on Holiday
It is always advisable to seek advice from your GP and be aware that your holiday insurance could be affected.
This Department of Health information leaflet gives information about how to get medical treatment abroad, how to stay healthy while you're away, and how to get reduced- cost medical treatment in Europe.
27 Going on Holiday
Disabled Holiday Info is a charitable organisation that pro- vides holiday information for wheelchair users. The website is designed to give travellers with disabilities (whether they are wheelchair users or have other mobility issues) appropriate information on accessible holiday accommodation, attrac- tions, activities to enable them to choose suitable accessible holidays bearing in mind their disability and special needs.
Sue Napper (Secretary) Disabled Holiday Information, PO. Box 186, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1AF.
Email: [email protected] Website: www.disabledholidayinfo.org.uk
28 Going on Holiday
If you're disabled or a person with reduced mobility (PRM), you must let airline staff know your needs at least 48 hours before you travel. This will assist the airline to plan for the help you’ll need. Find out about planning your journey, taking equipment and medical forms to complete.
Planning what assistance or services you’ll need will make your journey easier. It’s important to let the airline know of your needs at least 48 hours before you travel. This way, the airline can plan ahead and provide you with the service assis- tance you need at the airport. However, if no notification is given, airports are required to make all reasonable efforts to provide assistance.
Travel insurance is available from many providers so it is best to get quotes from several companies to compare prices.
For more information on travelling please see the government website:
Website: www.direct.gov.uk
It is useful to also check with the organisation you have arranged your holiday with for more information.
29 Getting back to work Here you can find your local Jobcentre Plus offices in and around Shropshire. Your local job centre can administer claims for Employment and Support Allowances and help you with finding new employment. Telephone 0845 604 3719
Bridgnorth Oswestry Severn Street 27 Oswald Street Bridgnorth Oswestry Shropshire Shropshire WV15 6BP SY11 1DZ
Market Drayton Wellington 51 Stafford Street 67 New Street Market Drayton Telford Shropshire Shropshire TF9 1JF TF1 1NW
Madeley Telford Church Street Telford House Telford Southwater Way Shropshire Shropshire TF7 5RH TF3 4PD
Shrewsbury Whitchurch Princess House Green End Parade 17-19 The Square Whitchurch Shropshire Shropshire SY1 1YA SY13 1AG
30 Getting back to work
Access to Work—practical help at work
Access to work can help you if your health or disability affects the way you do your job. It gives you and your employer ad- vice and support with extra costs which may arise because of your needs.
It might pay towards a support worker or the equipment you need at work. It can also pay towards the cost of getting to work if you cannot use public transport. If you need a commu- nicator at job interviews they may be able to pay for some or all of the communicator costs.
Who can get Access to Work?
You may be able to get help if you’re:
In a paid job Unemployed and about to start work Unemployed and about to start a Work Trial Self-employed and your disability or health condition stops you from being able to do parts of your job.
Contact your local Job Centre Plus to arrange an appointment
31 Getting back to work
Work Choice—supporting disabled people in employment
On 25 October 2010, WORKSTEP, Work Preparation and the Job Introduction Scheme were replaced by Work Choice.
Work Choice helps people with disabilities whose needs can- not be met through other work programmes, Access to Work or workplace adjustments. If Work Choice is for you it will be tailored to meet your individual needs.
The programme is delivered by providers funded by the gov- ernment. There are 3 different sections called modules:
Module one: Work Entry Support This will last for up to 6 months.
Module two: In-Work Support This will last for up to 2 years
Module three: Longer-term In-Work Support Time not specified.
Contact your local Job Centre Plus to arrange an appointment
32 Healthy Eating
Dieticians use up to date public health and scientific research on food, health and disease, which they translate into practi- cal guidance to support people to make behaviour changes about their food choices
Dieticians are statutorily regulated, and governed by an ethi- cal code, to ensure that they always work to the highest standard. The title dietician can only be used by those appro- priately trained professionals who have registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC) and whose details are on the HPC website. www.hpcheck.org
Dieticians within Shropshire include Specialist Neurological Dietician at:
Shropshire Enablement Team Shropshire Rehab Centre Lancaster Road Harlescott Shrewsbury SY1 3NJ
01743 453600
Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Dieticians- 01743 261000/ 261139 Princess Royal Hospital Dieticians 01952 641222/ ex 4419 33 Legal Issues
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that lets you appoint someone to make decisions about your welfare, money or property. It can be used at any time when / if you are not able to make your own decisions. A Lasting Power of Attorney cannot be used until it is registered with the Office of the Public Guardian.
When a Lasting Power of Attorney is registered, there is a fee of £120. This fee is separate for each Lasting Power of Attor- ney you register with the Office of the Public Guardian. For example, it costs £240 to register both a health and welfare and a property and financial affairs Lasting Power of Attorney. The cost covers the work involved in processing an application, checking the documents, issuing notices and noti- fying applicants if there are any errors. You are exempt from fees if you are in receipt of certain benefits.
Office of the Public Guardian P O Box 15118 Birmingham, B16 6GX
0300 456 0300 Email: [email protected]
For more information visit the website www.direct.gov.uk
34 Supporting People Programme
The Supporting People programme aims to help vulnerable people live independently in their own home in the communi- ty. Supporting People funds housing-related support services which have helped many people to avoid losing their home, needing to go to hospital or other care services.
Commissioning & Partnerships Team
Shropshire Council Community Service Shirehall Abbey Foregate Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6ND
01743 255925
Website: www.shropshire.gov.uk/housing
Email: [email protected]
35 Mobility To qualify for adaptations in the home you must have an as- sessment of your care needs and meet the Social Care eligi- bility criteria. You can apply to Social Care for minor adapta- tions, for example hand rails for the bathroom. Eligibility for this service will be subject to a very simple financial assess- ment.
Shropshire Council Community Services Ptarmigan Sitka Drive Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6LG
0345 678 9005 Email: [email protected]
Telford & Wrekin Council Darby House Lawn Central Telford TF3 4JA
01952 381280 Email: [email protected]
36 Independent Living Partnership Independent Living Partnership Ltd (ILP) is committed to im- proving the lives of people by helping them to help them- selves. ILP will provide home visits for those people who re- quire moving and handling advice, information, equipment so- lutions or bespoke training to carers. ILP can provide sales support to those who prefer to buy products to meet their needs, but don't know where to start looking.
The Lantern Meadow Farm Drive Shrewsbury SY1 4NG
01743 210820
Email: [email protected]
37 Shropshire Wheelchair Ser- vices The Wheelchair and Posture Service aims to meet the mobili- ty needs of people of all ages with restricted abilities within the catchment area. This is achieved through skilled, clinical assessment resulting in the prescription of mobility equipment with associated seating and postural products; ensuring an equitable, appropriate service to all users.
Shropshire Wheelchair Services
Shropshire Rehabilitation Centre Lancaster Road Harlescott Shrewsbury SY1 3NJ
01743 444051
Monday to Thursday: 9.00am - 4.30pm (excluding Bank Holi- days) Friday: 9.00am - 4.00pm
38 Shopmobility Shopmobility is a scheme which lends manual wheelchairs, powered wheelchairs and powered scooters to members of the public with limited mobility to shop and to visit leisure and commercial facilities within the town, city or shopping centre. You do not need to be registered disabled to use it. All schemes operate slightly differently; some provide Shopmobility as a free service while others make a charge.
Shopmobility Shrewsbury
Level One Raven Meadows Car Park Shrewsbury SY1 1PL
01743 236900 Email: [email protected]
Monday to Saturday: 9.30am- 4.30pm (excluding Bank Holi- days)
39 Shopmobility Shopmobility Telford
Red Oak Car Park, Telford Shopping Centre, Telford
Tel: 01952 238005/238015 Email: [email protected] Website: www.telfordshopping.co.uk
Shopmobility Oswestry
Oswestry Community Action Qube Queens Building Oswald Road Oswestry SY11 1RB
Tel: 01691 656882 Email: [email protected]
40 Physiotherapy
A Chartered Physiotherapist who specialises in the treatment of stroke could help you improve your mobility, movement and comfort.
You can access Physiotherapy via The NHS The private sector
NHS PHYSIOTHERAPY
Out-Patient: Shrewsbury & Telford Hospital Out-patient physiotherapy can be accessed via referral from your GP, consultant or other healthcare professional.
Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust Out-patient physiotherapy can be provided at Whitchurch, Ludlow and Bridgnorth hospitals. This is accessed via GP or consultant.
Shropshire Enablement Team (SET) For people 65 and under. Referral from anyone including GP, consultant, social services, relatives and friends or yourself.
Shrewsbury 01743 453600 Fax. 01743 453601 Email: [email protected]
41 Physiotherapy
Domiciliary Physiotherapy is provided in your own home by the following teams:
Community Physiotherapy Referral via GP, consultant, other healthcare professional
Shrewsbury 01743 261651 Telford 01952 235985 Newport & Shifnal 01952 820272 Market Drayton 01630 650850 Whitchurch 01948 666292 Ludlow 01584 871135
Immediate Care Team Referral via GP, consultant, other healthcare professional 01952 381301
42 Physiotherapy
PRIVATE PHYSIOTHERAPY
If you decide to see a private Physiotherapist please ensure they are fully qualified and are a member of the Chartered So- ciety of Physiotherapy (CSP) or are registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC). Also check that they are specially trained in the treatment of strokes.
Their contact details can be found in the local telephone directory.
43 Relationships & Sexuality After a stroke many people find a difference in their ability to express their sexuality. This may present in many ways - such as erectile dysfunction (impotence), loss of interest in sex, in- creased sexual drive, inability to orgasm, difficulty with posi- tioning, loss of self-confidence.
These things can happen to anyone regardless of their gen- der, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ethnicity and marital status. If you have been affected and would like fur- ther help, you can contact:-
Shropshire Enablement Team Shropshire Rehabilitation Centre Lancaster Road Shrewsbury SY1 3NJ 01743 453600
Your G.P. Your consultant Sexual and Relationship Therapist. To find a thera pist visit www.cosrt.org.uk or phone 020 8543 2707 Relate visit www.relate.org.uk or phone 0300 100 1234
44 Relationships & Sexuality Other resources:-
Factsheet ‘Sex after stroke’ to download or order from Website: www.stroke.org.uk
45 Speech & Language Speech therapy will help if you have problems with swallowing, talking, reading and writing. It can also help others who need to communicate with you.
After having a stroke, many people experience problems with speaking and understanding, as well as with reading and writing. This is called aphasia and is sometimes also known as dysphasia.
Aphasia can be caused by damage to the parts of the brain that are responsible for language, or be due to the muscles that are involved in speech being affected. You should see a speech and language therapist as soon as possible for an assessment, and to start therapy to help you with your communication skills.
46 Support Groups
In a support group, members provide each other with vari- ous types of help. The help may take the form of providing and evaluating relevant information, relating personal experi- ences, listening to and accepting others' experiences, provid- ing sympathetic understanding and establishing social net- works. A support group may also work to inform the public or engage in advocacy.
There are a range of both local and national organisations in the UK that can offer you help, advice and support.
47 Shropshire Aphasic Society
This is a support group run by people with speech and memory problems. Open to sufferers and their carers. They have Social Events, such as Outings to Places of Interest and Short Holidays etc.
The club meets on the third Monday of each month at 1.00pm. For more information contact:
Maureen on 01952 933610
The group meets at:
The Captain Webb Bagley Drive Wellington
EVERYONE WELCOME!
48 Shrewsbury & District Stroke Club
The major aim of the club is to relieve, comfort and support people who have suffered a stroke and their carers. They meet at Bicton Heath Community Centre
The club meets on the first Friday of each month at 2.00pm. For more information contact:
Shrewsbury and District Stroke Club 2 Outwood Harlescott Shrewsbury SY1 3XA
01743 469494
49 Market Drayton & District Stroke Club
A club that meets for social occasions, including outings, speakers, and activities. The club is affiliated to the Stroke Association and is held monthly.
The club meets on the third Monday of every month.
For more information:
Secretary ‘Wyndhurst’ Mill Road, Wollerton Market Drayton TF9 3NB
01630 685964
50 Mayfair Stroke Club (Church Stretton)
Meetings for people who have suffered strokes and their car- ers. The group offers support, information, social events, speakers and trips.
The club meets on the second Thursday of each month at 2.15pm to 4.15pm @
Mayfair Community Centre Easthope Road Church Stretton Shropshire SY6 6BL
51 The Wrekin & Telford Stroke Club
The group was started well over 20 years ago and meetings were held at the Wrekin Hospital. Telford Lions have been as- sisting and supporting the group for the last few years.
Entertainment varies each month - trips, concerts, fish & chip suppers, sit down exercises, bingo/game evenings and film nights. Belly dancers, singers, poets and guest speakers, have all come along to entertain the group.
The club meets on the last Thursday of each month at 7.00pm to 9.00pm @
Turnpike Court in St. Georges—Contact through Telford Lions number 0845 833 95 85
52 Carers Support Groups (not Stroke specific)
Carers' Support Groups are open to all Family Carers. The groups offer emotional and practical support from staff, GP Link Workers, other carers and people who will understand your needs and concerns.
You will have access to up to date information regarding ben- efits, policies and developments that affect you as a carer.
The group may arrange trips, with transport, to places of inter- est or may organise an interesting programme of talks and meetings. Recent topics have included:
Advice about medication How to prevent falls Therapeutic massage Basic first aid skills Moving and handling techniques How to use the internet How to manage stress
Groups are supported by the Carers Support Service (formerly Shropshire Carers) as part of the:
Community Council of Shropshire 4 The Creative Quarter Shrewsbury Business Park Shrewsbury SY2 6LG For further details call 01743 341995
53
Princess Royal Hospital Carers
Group
For carers of someone who has had a stroke. Contact Staff Nurse Winder at the Princess Royal Hospital.
Princess Royal Hospital Apley Castle, Telford, TF1 6TF 01952 641222 Website: www.sath.nhs.uk
54 Young Carers (not Stroke specific)
If you are a young carer aged under 18 there is support available. Young carers are children or young people who look after someone in their family who has an illness, a disability, a mental health problem or a substance misuse problem. They may be taking on practical and/or emotional caring responsi- bilities that an adult would normally do.
A young carer's extra responsibilities might include lifting someone to help them get around, helping an adult to cope with an addiction, and spending time helping a brother or sister to play. You and your family can ask for more help if you find yourself in this situation.
As a young carer it can be difficult to know what help is available and how you can get it. Health professionals such as GPs, or other professionals such as social workers who may visit the family home, can be a useful source of infor- mation.
Call Carers Direct on 0808 802 0202 Free, confidential information and advice for carers.
Lines are open 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 11am to 4pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines and mobiles or you can request a free call back.
55 Telford Young Carers
Telford & Wrekin Young Carers Service The Liz Yates Centre Lightmoor Shropshire TF4 3QN
01952 458044 / 211419
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.telfordyoungcarers.org.uk
56 Market Drayton Dysphasia Support Group
Provide 2 weekly meetings for therapeutic and confidence building. For more information contact the group secretary:
Club meets first and third Tuesday of every month
7 Summerhill Gardens Market Drayton Shropshire TF9 1BG
01630 757793
Email: [email protected]
57 Community Transport People who may not be able to use public transport or do not have access to public transport can use this service. They of- fer door-to-door transport in local areas; vehicle hire with vol- unteer drivers to get to events and activities. They seek fund- ing from a number of sources to run the service and welcome donations.
Buzzard Corvedale Church Stretton Area Ring Community Bus & Ride Alan Wilson: 01694 720012 Alan Wilson: 01694 720025 [email protected] [email protected]
Bishops Castle Dial a Ride North Salop Wheelers Adrian Varcoe: 01588 638350 John Harrison: 01948 880037 [email protected] [email protected]
Bridgnorth Community Oswestry Dial a Ride Transport Elizabeth Hindmarch: 01691 Lila Brown: 01746 768539 671571 bridgnorthcom- e.hindmarch@qube- [email protected] oca.org.uk
Friendly Bus Broseley Shrewsbury Dial a Ride Julie Brazier: 01952 881145 Linda Cox: 01743 450270 [email protected] lin- da@communitybasedtranspo rt.co.uk 58 Community Transport In Telford & Wrekin there are lots of ways to get around the borough. There is an extensive public transport network, in- cluding buses and trains. For those that need help to get around, we can offer community transport.
Community transport within Telford and Wrekin comprises a number of different services:
Community buses Concessionary travel (including Telford Dial-a-Ride) Education transport Special educational needs transport Wrekin Community Cars
For further information please contact the Transport team
01952 384623
email : [email protected].
59 Dial-a-Ride Shrewsbury Shrewsbury Dial-a-Ride is an accessible minibus service operating within a ten mile radius of Shrewsbury Town Centre. It offers priority booking service for journeys required for medical purposes and needs all journeys to be booked 48 hours before the time required to travel. A fare is charged for each journey (based on local bus fares). Bus pass can be used after 9.30am.
Operates: Monday to Friday - 8.45 am until 4.00 pm
Shropshire County Council, Unit 7, Sundrome Trading Park Fetherbed Lane Shrewsbury Shropshire
01743 450350
Email: [email protected] Website: www.shropshire.gov.uk/community.nsf
60 Dial-a-Ride Telford
The Dial-a-Ride scheme operates in the urban area of Telford and is intended for residents who cannot access conventional public transport due to mobility problems.
Dial-a-Ride offers a door-to-door service. All vehicles are easy to access, with the ability to carry passengers in wheelchairs. All staff are fully trained in disability awareness and passen- ger safety to ensure the comfort and well-being of customers.
To apply for Dial-a-Ride, you need to complete and return the application form.
Revenues and Benefit Services Telford & Wrekin Council Civic Offices Telford TF3 4HD
01952 383867
61 ShropshireLink ShropshireLink provides a public transport bus service in all rural parts of Shropshire on a minimum of two days each week. Unlike a traditional bus service it is not restricted to a set route or timetable. Where appropriate the bus has the ability to come direct to your door to make travel easier. Book- ings must be made at least 24 hours before you wish to travel and a maximum of seven days in advance.
Lines open: Monday and Thursday - 8 am until 8 pm. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday - 8 am until 6 pm. Saturday - 9 am until 1 pm.
Shropshire Council Development Services, Shirehall, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6ND
0345 6789068 or 01743 210368
Email: [email protected]
62 Hospital Transport The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust is based on two sites in Shropshire. Before setting out for hospital, please check which site you need to come to. You can travel to hos- pital using public transport, your own car, voluntary car schemes or the Patient Transport Service provided by the NHS for some patients.
Patient First (Hospital Transport)
Patient First Group Head Office 7 Park Plaza Battlefield Enterprise Park Shrewsbury Shropshire SY1 3AF
01743 465565
Email: [email protected]
Patient First Eligibility Criteria
Before booking any patient transport service you must complete a form and it should be returned to the Ambulance Desk. In order to qualify for Patient Transport you must meet one or more of the criteria, which is:
63 Hospital Transport Is the patient a stretcher case? Is the patient on continuous intravenous support/infusion pumps? Is the patient an incubated baby? Has the patient been identified as requiring specialist handling? Is the patient unable to walk? Does the patient require oxygen? Has the patient seriously impaired vision? Is the patient medically unfit to travel by any other means? Is the patient being transferred to community hospitals? Can the patient only get around in a wheelchair? Does the patient have psychiatric or learning difficulties therefore unable to use public transport? Does the patient have a medical condition that would compromise their dignity or cause a public concern? Is the patient unable to walk without the continual sup- port of another person or walking aid i.e. Zimmer frame. Will the patient experience a side effect as a result of the treatment they will receive?
64 Community Car Service
Provides transport for people to essential services such as hospital, doctors, dentist appointments, shopping and banking. Passengers have to meet eligibility criteria and contribute to the volunteer driver mileage expenses. For more information contact the Voluntary Car Coordinator who can be contacted in the following ways:
Shropshire Council The Shirehall Abbey Foregate Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6ND
01743 255613
Email: [email protected]
65 Taxis Taxis are required to be licensed with the local authority. Some are required by law under the conditions attached to the grant of their licences to convey you in a wheelchair. For more information on vehicles licensed for hire or reward contact your local council.
Shropshire Council, Development Services, Shirehall, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY2 6ND
0345 678 9026 Email: [email protected]
Telford & Wrekin Council, Darby House, Lawn Central, Telford, TF3 4JA
01952 383262 Email: [email protected]
For more information on wheelchair accessible taxis across the county go to the website www.disabledholidayinfo.org.uk/ taxis.htm
Or contact - Disabled Holiday Information, PO. Box 186, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 1AF.
Email: [email protected]
66 Patient & Carer Stories
Mel Jackson
Six years ago Mel was a highly respected optometrist in Staf- fordshire and Shropshire. He had served a term as vice- chairman of the Staffordshire Local Optical Committee and was a professional member of the Family Health Services Au- thority disciplinary committee, investigating complaints against practitioners.
Suddenly, on the 17th July 2004, whilst examining a patient, Mel collapsed and was rushed to hospital. Mel had suffered a severe haemorrhagic stroke. He was 55 years old. He was very poorly at first but as he did regain strength, it wasn’t long before he realised he would have to retire from being an op- tometrist. As an independent practitioner that was his busi- ness, his life’s work and his income gone from his life. Mel el- oquently describes his sense of loss and bereavement, not just for his physical strength but for his reputation and stand- ing in the community. He felt embarrassed about eating in public and was hurt by an insensitive individual who referred to him behind his back as cripple. If it hadn’t been for the sup- port of his family and friends, especially his wife Jenny, Mel could quite easily have sunk into a deep depression.
However, of recent years, Mel has found a new lease of life. He was persuaded to get involved with his local stroke sup- port group in Market Drayton and is now Chairman! He also co-founded the Market Drayton & District Dysphasia Support Group.
67 Patient & Carer Stories
Mel also joined the Shropshire & Staffordshire Cardiac & Stroke Network’s Patient and Public Involvement Steering Group and has been appointed as Mental Health Act Hospital Manager for Shropshire & Staffordshire and as a reviewer for the West Midlands Quality Review Service: Urgent Care, Critical Care, Vascular, Stroke &TIA Services.
Mel feels these activities have improved his self confidence and boosted his self esteem.
The picture shows Mel and Jenny in their garden today.
68 Patient & Carer Stories
Hugh & Angela Jones
Our story begins in 2007 when Hugh had several mini strokes, after discussions with our GP it was decided he would be admitted for surgery on the carotid artery to alleviate any further risk of more strokes.
Hugh had his operation which took over 5 hours on the 3rd March 2007, in the recovery room after this procedure, unfortunately he had a massive stroke which nearly took his life. The nursing staff were aware of this situation but gave me no idea of him having had the stroke, I was eventually given an explanation by the surgeon but what should have been a five day stay turned into nearly eight weeks. The stroke affected his right side and took away his ability to walk he also lost his speech and has memory problems.
The aftercare he received was second to none, I must say, but after twelve months of physio, hydrotherapy and acupuncture Hugh is still battling with the side effects with on- going therapy and hospital visits.
We attend the Shropshire Aphasic Society where Hugh is Vice Chairman with my assistance, we go on outings several times throughout the year and I attend a support group at the Princess Royal Hospital where we are all carers of stroke survivors.
69 Patient & Carer Stories
Kevin & Tracey
Kevin was a fit, active 44 year old who enjoyed all kinds of sport, having coached and played football for most of his life. At this time he was self-employed, running his own successful window company, Balmoral Windows of Enfield when, on the 5th January 2005, he woke in the night with the effects of what appeared to be a mild TIA, whilst waiting in the A&E Dept. for discharge papers and an out-patient appointment he complained to me of a headache and within minutes was having a massive stroke, it was that quick. He was rushed to the resuscitation room, sedated and eventually taken to a ward.
That evening I will remember forever and so will our children who were 14, 17 and 20yrs old at the time. It was clear our local hospital was not equipped to deal with the severity of Kevin’s stroke so after 6 days he was transferred to the Royal Free in Hampstead to a Neurology Ward where, thankfully he received the care he needed and answers as to why this had happened, after 4 days of tests it appeared he had torn his main artery, his Consultant was sure it was as a result of lifting heavy windows a few weeks previously.
70 Patient & Carer Stories
Kevin was unable to swallow so had a feeding tube, his right side was paralysed and he was unable to speak or remember anyone, he couldn’t remember what a brush was for or how to put socks on due to memory loss, even now nearly eight years later he does not remember that year at all. After 8 weeks he was transferred to a Regional Rehab Unit in the Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow, West London for a further 3 months of intense physio, speech therapy and occupational therapy. He and his therapists worked extremely hard at regaining the use of his right arm and hand and also his ability to walk, this meant everything to him.
Financially this hit our family very hard as we had lost our main source of income from the business, I had to give up my full time employment and take on a part time job so I could look after Kevin as he suffered with seizures initially, which usually resulted in being sedated by paramedics and an overnight stay in hospital, but thankfully with medication, he has been stable and seizure free for two years now. Kevin has dysphasia which means he finds it difficult to communicate, he is also unable to read or write very well which is why I am telling his story.
71 Patient & Carer Stories
We moved to Shropshire 4 yrs ago and I can only say how amazing the support network is here compared to other counties, I really struggled in the first couple of years after Kevin’s stroke but I have found there are wonderful support groups here and help for the stroke survivor and their carer and families. Kevin attends Headway one day a week, plays indoor bowls and walks with the Walkabout Wrekin scheme, he continues to improve all the time.
This is where I hope this directory will help others like us, at a time when you feel you are the only one this is happening to and you are unsure of where to go and who to talk to and what to ask and what is available to you.
72 Patient & Carer Stories
Bruce Marks
I went to bed and felt ok. Towards the morning I felt sick. Tried to have a glass of water, water went everywhere. My wife rang 999, within five minutes an ambulance had arrived and I was on my way to hospital. For a week I do not know much, what was going on. I was confined to bed, being unable to swallow or talk. They then drip fed me with a tube in my nose going to my stomach, that lasted for seven weeks. My first meal consisted of mashed up food and only ten spoonfuls were given, this lasted for three weeks. After I had small meals which tasted like heaven. By this time I could speak a little. I was transferred to another hospital where I stayed five months. I have been home nearly three years. I still need help from a daily carer and my wife, but I am still making progress, the thing is to look forward and not look back.
73 Age UK
Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is a local charity which works tirelessly to make life better for older people across the whole of Shropshire. From April 2011 the name was changed from Age Concern to Age UK. Retirement brings life changing issues and Age UK is ready to offer benefits help and advice and provide information on all issues concerning older people to allow them to make informed decisions. Open Monday to Friday 10am—4pm
3 Mardol Gardens Shrewsbury SY1 1PR 01743 233123 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ageukshropshireandtelford.org.uk
Telford Office Open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9.30am to midday
Access House, Halesfield 17 Telford TF7 4PW 01952 587821 (Information line Tel: 01952 587749) Email: [email protected] t 74 Age UK
North Shropshire Office
Open Tuesday to Friday 9.00am to 1.00pm
Unit 2, 12 St Mary's Street Whitchurch SY13 1QY
01948 665317
Email: [email protected]
South Shropshire Home from Hospital scheme
01584 878046
Email: [email protected]
75 British Red Cross
The Red Cross helps local people to remain independent in their own homes by:
Supporting people as they settle back in their homes fol- lowing a stay in hospital Loaning medical equipment such as wheelchairs and commodes Assisting in stress and pain relief by providing gentle hand, neck and shoulder massage Teaching people how to disguise skin disfigurements from illness / accident.
Betton Street Suite 3.01 Belle Vue Central Park Shrewsbury Telford SY3 7NY TF2 9TW
01743 280070 01952 209840
Website: www.redcross.org Email: [email protected] (Shrewsbury) Email: [email protected] (Telford)
76 Bromford Support
Deliver housing related support to individuals following brain injury and stroke. Support to access, welfare benefits, other appropriate agencies and housing. They empower people to make informed choices about the services they access and receive. The Floating Support Service, is usually offered on a weekly basis for up to a maximum of two years.
7 Spring Court South Drive Madeley Telford TF7 5DX
01952 582617
Website: www.bromfordgroup.co.uk Email: [email protected]
77 Carers Contact Centre
They provide free support, information and advice to carers in Telford & Wrekin including:
Confidential one-to-one support Someone to listen to you Group Support Information and Advice Carers Activities, such as walks and pamper days Quarterly Carers Newsletter
The Liz Yates Centre Lightmoor Telford, TF4 3QN
01952 582617 Website: www.carerscontact.org.uk Email: [email protected]
78 Citizens Advice Bureaux
There are 394 Citizens Advice Bureaux across England and Wales and all are registered charities. Citizens Advice itself is also a registered charity, as well as being the membership organisation for bureaux. Together they make up the Citizens Advice service. They can help people resolve their problems with debt, benefits, employment, housing, discrimination, and many more issues. It is available to everyone.
Advice may be given face-to-face or by phone. Most bureaux can arrange home visits and some also provide email advice. A growing number are piloting the use of text, online chat and webcams. Some bureau locations
Bishops Castle Broseley Health Centre Citizens Advice Shropshire (Bridgnorth) Citizens Advice Shropshire (Oswestry & Border) Citizens Advice Bureau Citizens Advice Shropshire (South Shropshire) Citizens Advice Bureau Craven Arms GP Mayfair Outreach Shrewsbury County Court Duty Desk Shrewsbury Prison Shropshire Telford &Wrekin CABx Specialist Unit Market Drayton Outreach
79 Citizens Advice Bureaux
Advice by phone is available from all Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB). In addition, we are in the process of developing a national phone service. It will become available in different parts of the UK over the next two years.
It is now fully operational in Wales, but only for people who live or work there. In England the service is currently being rolled out area by area. If it is not yet available in your area, you will hear options for recorded information.
For Wales call 0844 477 2020 For England call 08444 111 444
Calls to the national phone service (0844 numbers) will be charged at five pence per minute from a landline and may cost considerably more from mobile and other phones.
There are various opening and contact times for different locations but help and advice is available by calling the na- tional number for England or you can visit the website for some useful information and guides:
Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
80 Different Strokes
Since 1996 Different Strokes has been providing specialist services to younger stroke survivors throughout England. The services are peer led and therefore address the very specific needs of the 25% of stroke survivors who are under retirement age.
The main concern of younger stroke survivors is to take control of their lives and to regain their independence, which is why they are keen to make the best possible physical recovery and to return to work. They need immediate, rel- evant and practical information, guidance, support and ad- vice to take control of their lives, optimise their recovery, re- gain as much independence as possible and play their full role in their communities; and they require rehabilitation services designed to meet their needs. Different Strokes provides services which address all these needs – it is a “one stop shop” which provides solutions to all the problems younger stroke survivors face.
9 Canon Harnett Court Wolverton Mill Milton Keynes MK12 5NF
0845 130 7172 Email: [email protected]
81 Hamar Help & Support Centre
The Hamar Centre is at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital. Whilst part of the oncology service the staff and facilities are available for patients and relatives in need of information and support to help cope with cancer as well as other serious and chronic illnesses.
Mutual support groups operate from the centre and there is a wide range of health information and advice. They also pro- vide counselling services.
Hamar Help & Support Centre Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Mytton Oak Road Shrewsbury SY3 8XQ
01743 261035 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sath.nhs.uk
82 Headway Shropshire
Headway Shropshire is a centre for activities and has been established since 1989 and has a sound understanding of the effects of acquired brain injury. They can provide cognitive, social and physical support through their Day Opportunities. Outreach workers provide support to the survivor, their friends, family, carers and professionals through home and hospital visits.
Holsworth Park Welshpool Road Shrewsbury SY3 5HJ
01743 365565 Email: [email protected] Website: www.headwayshropshire.org.uk
83 Listen and Care
Listen and care are a registered charity and offer a drop-in service for anyone suffering from mental health problems or issues around isolation. They provide weekly activities on site and have regular walking activities. All they ask is for a contri- bution from all members of 50p to help pay for drinks and bis- cuits. They have strong links with other support groups and forums.
Listen and Care Pool Farm Avenue Apley Telford TF1 6FR
01952 254 504
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.listenandcare.co.uk
84 Mind
Telford Mind is an independent voluntary organisation that is affiliated to national Mind. It exists to promote and support better Mental Health in Telford and Wrekin. Telford Mind offers support to anyone who finds it hard to cope…With a Drop-In & Counselling Centre, Art Classes, Relax Studio Tai Chi Relaxation, Route 2 Befriending Service and more.
The Wellbeing Centre 76-83 Severn Walk Telford TF7 4AS
01952 588367
Website www.telford-mind.co.uk
85 Psychological Support
The effects of a stroke can be varied and includes emotional or psychological and cognitive factors. Psychological or emo- tional difficulties such as anxiety and depression can be com- mon following a stroke, as people adjust to what has hap- pened. The effects of the stroke on a person’s cognitive skills can also make it more difficult to regulate emotions. It can be harder to manage feelings of anger, frustration, fear and sad- ness.
All of these feelings are to be expected after a stroke, particularly in the early days when people struggle to understand what has happened to them. It is commonly a very distressing time for all the family and the patient and family may need support. For some people these emotional difficulties can make it harder for them to engage with their rehabilitation. Such difficulties can happen at any stage and may be more apparent later, when someone tries to resume previous activities. There can be a variety of reasons why someone struggles emotionally because the effects of a stroke can mean very different things to different people.
Cognitive skills relate to the thinking skills of the brain and in- cludes memory, language, perception, attention, reasoning, planning and judgement, all or some of which may be affected by a stroke. Just as it can be harder to move an arm or a leg after a stroke, it can also be more difficult to use some of the- se cognitive skills.
86 Psychological Support
Cognitive difficulties can have an impact not only on the person who has had a stroke but those around them who may not understand why they behave in a particular way. They also have an impact on a person’s rehabilitation after stroke.
A Clinical Neuropsychologist can conduct a more formal assessment of these skills, which can be used to determine strengths and weaknesses and help you and the family get round some of these difficulties.
Help can be provided by a Clinical Psychologist or Clinical Neuropsychologist through the Shropshire Enablement Team. The role of a Clinical Psychologist is to provide information and support to the patient, his/her family and the team of rehabilitation therapists on the psychological aspects of stroke.
The Shropshire Enablement Team also runs a “Regaining Confidence after Stroke” group which clients find very sup- portive, as stroke can become a shared experience and group members encourage each other in achieving their rehabilita- tion goals.
Other support may be offered through Counselling services accessed through GP practices or the Department of Psychological Therapies. Information and support can also be provided through the Stroke Association.
87 Shropshire Wheelchair User Group (SWUG)
Since 1992 when the group was formed it has been involved in a wide variety of issues.
For example :- Wheelchair Retrieval. When wheelchairs have been loaned out and not returned when no longer needed, then SWUG promoted a poster cam- paign in hospitals and doctor's surgeries to get some of them back for refurbishment.
Priority Response. If you are a permanent wheelchair user and have need for emergency repairs to your equipment, then you can have your situation assessed in around four hours. Again SWUG have been involved in drawing up guidelines to insure that those who need most help, get it!
Shropshire Rehabilitation Centre Lancaster Road Harlescott Shrewsbury SY1 3NJ
01743 444051 Email: [email protected] Website: www.swug.org.uk
88 Social Services
Local authorities are the main source of social care support for carers and the people they care for. Services for the per- son you care for are often called community care services, and could include things like help with washing and dressing, meals on wheels, aids and adaptations or respite care.
If you provide regular and substantial care for someone who might need community care services, you have the right to an assessment of your own needs as a carer. You can find more information in the section about assessments.
Local authorities can support carers by providing services specifically for them, separate from services for the per- son who is cared for. Carers' services can include respite care and short breaks, advice and information, emotional support or help in the home.
You may also be able to get support from your local authority in the form of a direct payment. This is a cash payment that enables you to pay for something that you’ve identified to help you in your caring role. Direct payments are part of a move towards "personalised" social care, which aims to give people more choice and control about the support they get.
89 Social Services
Contact your local authority to find out what support they offer to carers. You can find their contact details using our online directory, or by talking to one of our helpline advisors. You may be able to get other types of help from your local authori- ty. For example, some councils provide welfare and benefits advice that’s available to all local residents.
Shropshire Telford & Wrekin
Shropshire Council Telford and Wrekin Community Services Council Ptarmigan, Sitka Drive Darby House Shrewsbury Lawn Central Shropshire Telford SY2 6LG TF3 4JA 0345 678 9044 01952 380000 Email: Email: community.services@shropsh [email protected] ire.gov.uk
90 The Stroke Association
The Stroke Association Family & Carer Support Service Louise House Roman Road Shrewsbury SY3 9JN 01743 235 792 please ask for Kirsty Broughton
The Stroke Association Family & Carer Support Service Paul Brown Building Princess Royal Hospital Apley Castle Telford TF1 6TF 01952 641 222 Ext. 4039 please ask for Tina Allen Website: www.stroke.org.uk
The Stroke Association funds research into prevention, treatment and better methods of rehabilitation, and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its Life After Stroke Services. These include Information, Advice and Support, Communication Support and Life After Stroke grants.
91 NHS Organisations
Shropshire Enablement Team (SET) Lancaster Road, Shrewsbury, SY1 3NJ 01743 453600 No email contact available at this time Website: www.telford.nhs.uk (search under A-Z of Services)
NHS Telford & Wrekin Halesfield 6, Telford, Shropshire, TF7 4BF 01952 580300 No email contact available at this time Website: www.telford.nhs.uk
Shropshire County Primary Care Trust (PCT) William Farr House, Mytton Oak Road, SY3 8XL 01743 277500 No email contact available at this time Website: www.shropshire.nhs.uk
92 NHS Organisations
Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Mytton Oak Road, Shrewsbury, SY3 8XQ 01743 261000 Please use feedback form on the website Website: www.sath.nhs.uk
Princess Royal Hospital Apley Castle, Telford, TF1 6TF 01952 641222 Please use feedback form on the website Website: www.sath.nhs.uk
Whitchurch Community Hospital Claypit Street, Whitchurch, SY13 1NT 01948 666292 No email contact available at this time Website: www.shropshire.nhs.uk
93 NHS Organisations
The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic & District Hospitals Trust Gobowen, Shropshire, SY10 7AG 01691 404606 / 01691 404608 Please use feedback form on the website Website: www.rajh.nhs.uk
Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust William Farr House, Mytton Oak Road, SY3 8XL 01743 277500 Please use feedback form on the website Website:www.shropshire.nhs.uk/shropscommunityhealth
Ludlow Community Hospital Gravel Hill, Ludlow, SY8 1QX 01584 872201 [email protected] Website:www.shropshire.nhs.uk/shropscommunityhealth
94 NHS Organisations
Bridgnorth Community Hospital Northgate, Bridgnorth, WV16 4EU 01746 762641 [email protected] Website:www.shropshire.nhs.uk/shropscommunityhealth
95 Please record any information that may be of special interest to you, yourPersonal carer, your family Information & friends or your healthcare team, including your GP.
Name
Address
Telephone Number
Next of Kin
Date of Birth
National Insurance Number Important Medical Information Other
96 Please record any information that may be of special interest toYour you, your information carer, your family & friends & youror your healthcare notes team, including your GP.
Who Name Contact Details E.g. Social Worker
97 Please record any information that may be of special interest toYour you, your information carer, your family & friends & youror your healthcare notes team, including your GP.
Who Name Contact Details E.g. Social Worker
98 Please record any information that may be of special interest toYour you, your information carer, your family & friends & youror your healthcare notes team, including your GP.
99 Please record any information that may be of special interest toYour you, your information carer, your family & friends & youror your healthcare notes team, including your GP.
100 Please record any information that may be of special interest toYour you, your information carer, your family & friends & youror your healthcare notes team, including your GP.
101 Please record any information that may be of special interest toYour you, your information carer, your family & friends & youror your healthcare notes team, including your GP.
102 Please record any information that may be of special interest toYour you, your information carer, your family & friends & youror your healthcare notes team, including your GP.
103 Have Your Say!
Contact the Network to discuss any issues in relation to stroke services within Shropshire. There are a number of ways you can have your say about local services for stroke patients and carers.
Shropshire and Staffordshire Heart & Stroke Network
Lambda House Hadley Park East Telford TF1 6QJ
01952 228 490
Email: [email protected]
104 Have Your Say!
Local Involvement Networks - LINks. A LINk is a network of local people, or organisations and groups that want to make care services better.
A LINk gives you the chance to say what you think and to suggest ideas to help improve services. They represent everyone. A LINk also works with care professionals to make sure your views are heard. There is a LINk in every Local Authority area that has social services responsibility.
Shropshire 01743 343 223 Email: [email protected]
Telford & Wrekin 01952 614 180 Email: [email protected]
105 Get Involved!
A new start date for Local Healthwatch in April 2013
Subject to parliamentary approval, Local Healthwatch will be the local consumer champion for patients, service users and the public. It will have an important role to champion the local consumer voice, not least through its seat on the local health and well being boards.
The new date for establishing Local Healthwatch in April 2013 will support the need to align this closer to the establishment of other new bodies such as the health and well being boards. The extension will also support preparations for implementa- tion and enable Healthwatch England (which will be estab- lished in October 2012) to provide the leadership and support to Local Healthwatch organisations
Healthwatch will replace Local Involvement Networks.
106 Get Involved!
Ways to get involved!
You can have as much or as little involvement with your local health services as you like.
If you just want to make a contribution from the comfort of your home—You Can!
If you want to become a member of a group and discuss local health services—You Can!
If you want to attend an event and represent your local community—You Can!
All NHS organisations have a duty to involve patients and representatives from within the community. If you want to find out more get in touch with any of the NHS organisations listed in this directory or contact the Network on telephone number:
07775 994584
107 Get Involved!
NHS Constitution
Involvement in your healthcare and in the NHS:
You have the right to be involved in discussions and decisions about your healthcare, and to be given information to enable you to do this. You have the right to be involved, directly or through representatives, in the planning of healthcare services, the development and consideration of proposals for changes in the way those services are provided, and in decisions to be made affecting the operation of those ser- vices.
The NHS also commits:
to provide you with the information you need to influence and scrutinise the planning and delivery of NHS services (pledge); and to work in partnership with you, your family, carers and representatives (pledge).
108 Compliments & Complaints
Compliments and complaints can be anything from a “Thank you” as you leave the hospital ward to a conversation with a member of staff about no one being around to assist you at mealtimes.
On occasion it may be something that has been really upset- ting for you or you have received such fantastic care at all stages that you want to ‘give something back’. If your experience has not been a good and positive experience then we need to know why.
You may see boxes on the stroke wards or in the rehabilitation departments within your local hospital. These can be used at any time to post your comments and feedback about your experiences of local services.
Please ask a member of staff if you cannot locate a box to leave your feedback.
109 Compliments & Complaints
Most medical care and treatment goes well, but things occasionally go wrong, and you may want to complain. So where do you start? Every NHS organisation has a complaints procedure. To find out about it, ask a member of staff, look on the hospital or trust's website, or contact the complaints department for more information.
How do I make a complaint?
Since April 2009, the NHS has run a simple complaints pro- cess, which has two stages.
1. Ask your hospital or trust for a copy of its complaints procedure, which will explain how to proceed. Your first step will normally be to raise the matter (in writing or by speaking to them) with the practitioner, e.g. the nurse or doctor concerned, or with their organisation, which will have a complaints manager. This is called local resolution, and most cases are resolved at this stage.
2. If you're still unhappy, you can refer the matter to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, who is independent of the NHS and government. Call 0345 015 4033
110 Useful Websites
Website Address Details
This organisation checks all hospitals in England to ensure that they are meeting www.cqc.org.uk government standards. Local Involvement Networks (LINks) are made up of individuals and community groups, such as faith groups and residents' associations, working together to improve health and social www.shropshirelink.org.uk care services. DIPEx is now a registered charity (no. 1087019) and has produced a website containing interviews with everyday people about their own experiences of serious illness, www.healthtalkonline.org health problems or health related matters. Local Involvement Networks (LINks) are made up of individuals and community groups, such as faith groups and residents' associations, working together to improve health and social www.staffordshirelink.org.uk care services.
A huge site dedicated to the Department of Health where you can find lots of information. Please use the "Search this site" box for more www.dh.gov.uk information.
111 Useful Websites
Website Address Details Arrhythmia Alliance (A-A) is a coalition of charities, patient groups, patients, carers, medical groups and allied professionals to promote timely and effective diagnosis and www.arrhythmiaalliance.org.uk treatment of arrhythmias.
Play a leading role in the fight against disease of the heart and circulation, so that it is no longer a major cause of disability www.bhf.org.uk and premature death.
Diabetes UK is an organisation working for people with diabetes, funding research, campaigning and helping people live with www.diabetes.org.uk the condition.
The Stroke Association is the only UK wide charity solely concerned with combating www.stroke.org.uk stroke in people of all ages.
Visit BBC News for up-to-the-minute news, breaking news, video, audio and feature www.bbc.co.uk/news/health/ stories concerning health topics.
Information from the National Health Service on conditions, treatments, local www.nhs.uk services and healthy living.
112 Important Websites for You! Note their details….
Website Address Details
113 Important Websites for You! Note their details….
Website Address Details
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Thank you
Thank you to the Shropshire Enablement Team whose original concept and ideas for a stroke handbook gave us the starting point that has enabled us to get to where we are to- day.
Also all the patients and carers that were involved in the very first version of the Life After Stroke handbook.
I would also like to thank all stroke patients, carers and staff for their contributions.
Paula Wells, Patient & Public Involvement Lead
This project was co-ordinated by Shropshire and Staffordshire Heart and Stroke Network with funding from Shropshire County Primary Care Trust
115 This resource has been produced by
With support from patient, carers and staff working within Shropshire
Publication Date: March 2012 Shropshire & Staffordshire Heart and Stroke Network, Lambda House, Hadley Park East, Hadley, Telford TF1 6QJ 01952 228490 Date to be revised and updated: March 2013
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