All the ways we can help you
We're here to support you on your path to recovery. Our support hub brings together all our online and in-person services, advice and guidance for stroke survivors and their families.
We know waking up to the catastrophic impact of stroke can be frightening. We’re here to support you every step of the way post-stroke. From leaving hospital to getting active and healthy eating, we can give you all the information you need for your recovery journey.
Will I fully recover?
Your body will need time to heal. And because every stroke is different, there's no set pattern for recovery. Some problems may get better quickly, but sometimes you may need ongoing support with other effects of your stroke.
How long does it take to recover after a stroke?
You will recover at your own speed. The quickest recovery often happens in the days and weeks after a stroke. Progress can continue for months and even years.
A stroke can affect almost any part of your body, and how you communicate, think and feel. The main thing to remember is support is available and you do not have to face the effects of a stroke on your own.
Starting your stroke recovery
You will get help in hospital to start your recovery. Therapists will assess you and work with you to set rehabilitation goals.
You will be assessed for the effects of stroke, including :
- Swallowing test: to check for swallowing problems and ensure you can eat and drink safely.
- Mobility assessment: to see how your stroke has affected you physically and what help you need with positioning and moving around.
- Continence assessment: to identify any continence problems and help you manage them.
- Communication and cognitive assessments: to find out if your stroke has caused any communication or cognitive problems and what help you may need.
- Nutritional status and hydration: to make sure you're getting the right nutrition and not becoming dehydrated.
What is rehabilitation?
Rehabilitation is a set of treatments and activities to help with your recovery. This might include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dietary support, speech and language therapy or psychological therapy.
What happens next
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Your journey to recovery
Any stroke can have a big impact on your life. There are some things you can do to help. With strength, determination and the right support, recovery is possible.
Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention as every minute is vital. If you experience or spot any of the signs of a stroke, don’t wait. Call 999 straight away.
Support for carers
Are you caring for someone who's recently had a stroke and want to help them with their recovery? We have information on supporting someone after a stroke, but here are some initial tips.
- Be patient. Things can take longer after a stroke. Let them do things in their own time.
- Ask therapists if you can be involved in rehabilitation.
- Try not to be overprotective. It's natural to be cautious, but stroke survivors can regain independence.
- Encourage them to do as much as they can, right from the start. Don't do everything for them.
- Keep things simple. Break tasks into small steps and give clear instructions, one at a time.
- Be positive. Praise every sign of progress, however small.
- Help them get the right support. If you need help finding support, you can call our Stroke Support Helpline on 0303 3033 100.