SANDRA GIDLEY MP CALLS FOR A NEW AMBITION FOR STROKE IN ROMSEY

2.37.57pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 25th Jul 2007

Sandra Gidley MP for Romsey is today backing The Stroke Association's call for her constituents to get involved in a major Government consultation on the future of stroke services in their area.

The standard of stroke services varies widely across England, and whilst a recent national survey has shown a general improvement in stroke care, over a third of people who have a stroke are still not treated on a stroke unit which can save lives and reduce disability.

The Government is developing a new National Strategy for Stroke aimed at modernising stroke prevention, treatment and care and a consultation document called "A new ambition for stroke" which has been published so that people can have their say on how stroke services can be changed or improved.

Speaking today Sandra said:

"There are many people in the local area who have been affected by stroke. It is a devastating condition that can strike anyone at any time and we urgently need to see improvements in stroke services, and increased public awareness of the symptoms and risk factors for stroke.

"The new National Strategy for Stroke will be much stronger if as many people as possible who have experience of stroke or an interest in stroke services, take part in the consultation process. This includes stroke survivors, their carers, family members and health and social care professionals."

Stroke is the third biggest killer in the UK and the biggest cause of serious adult disability. On average around 60,000 people each year are likely to die from stroke and at least 300,000 people are living with moderate to severe disabilities as a result of stroke in England. As the population ages these figures are set to increase.

For further information on how to get involved in the consultation process, please contact The Stroke Association Campaigns Hotline on 020 7566 1510, e-mail campaigns@stroke.org.uk or visit the Campaigns section of The Stroke Association website at www.stroke.org.uk

ENDS