Clwyd MS Darren Millar has praised Abergele Stroke Club for the vital support they are providing to Stroke survivors and their families after visiting them this week.
During his visit, Darren met with members, volunteers and carers to hear firsthand about the important role the group plays in helping people to rebuild confidence and independence following a Stroke.
The Club meet between 2pm and 4pm every other Thursday at Yr Hen Ysgol and offer a warm welcome, companionship, activities, peer support, and advice for those navigating the challenges of recovery.
Following his visit, Darren said:
“Abergele Stroke Club provides lifeline support to not only survivors of Stroke, but also their loved ones, and it was a real pleasure to visit them and have the opportunity to personally thank all those involved in running the club.
“It was evident from chatting with members that the support provided is much needed and appreciated.
“When people experience a Stroke, it can impact their lives massively. In fact, Stroke is a leading cause of disability, instantly changing the lives of the 7,000 people who will have a Stroke this year in Wales.
“It can be a challenging road to navigate, so having people you can turn to who understand exactly what you are going through is important. I would encourage anyone in this position to attend the Club where you will be warmly welcomed.”
Darren has long championed the need for improved treatment and care of people who experience a Stroke in Wales, with the Stroke Association in Wales warning that this support has been declining since 2019 and that “Neglecting investment in Stroke will have significant consequences”.
Darren has previously raised this in the Senedd Chamber and at the recent Y Farchnad in the Senedd met with Stroke Association to discuss the challenges facing Stroke patients in Wales and ways of improving outcomes.
He said:
“Sadly, not enough progress is being made in trying to improve outcomes for Stroke patients here in Wales.
“The Plaid Cymru administration in Cardiff Bay really need to address this by taking fast action to ensure everyone can get access to stroke units and reablement services in the way that they should.
“They also need to ensure that psychological support is also readily available, giving that mental health and well-being support to people who've suffered stroke, and indeed their carers.
“It was clear from talking to the Stroke Association and Abergele Stroke Club that so much more needs to be done, and I will continue holding those in power to account to ensure that it is and Stroke survivors receive all the care and support they need.”
For further information on Abergele Stroke Club, visit www.abergelestrokeclub.com
