MP supports calls for people to get involved in stroke consultation process

Mike Penning has supported calls by The Stroke Association for people to participate in a national consultation on stroke services.

Hemel MP, Mike Penning, is supporting The Stroke Association’s call for people to get involved in a major Government consultation on the future of stroke services in the area especially in light of plans to close the stroke unit at Hemel hospital.

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” has been published so that people can have their say on how stroke services can be changed or improved.

Speaking today, Mike said:

“There are many people in Hemel who have been affected by stroke. It is a devastating condition that can strike anyone at anytime and we urgently need to see improvement in stroke services and increased public awareness of the symptoms and risk factors for stroke.

“We have been fortunate in having an award winning local stroke unit – one that came in the top 25% in the recent survey - but this is set to change. Our stroke unit will be moved to Watford, so this consultation is another opportunity for people to tell the Government how this move will be disastrous for future stroke patients and their carers.

“I urge 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 professional.”

Stoke 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.