Different Strokes Partners with Cannabis Industry Council for Patient Choice and Quality of Life Broadcast

20 October 2026 | From 11am BST | Live from British Cannabis, Wokingham

Different Strokes is proud to be working in partnership with the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC) on Beyond Awareness: Patient Choice, Safety & Improved Quality of Life, a live educational broadcast bringing together patients, charities, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers and industry leaders.

Taking place on Tuesday 20th October 2026, the broadcast will explore patient choice, treatment access, safety and quality of life for people living with chronic health conditions.

As a charity supporting younger stroke survivors, Different Strokes recognises the importance of ensuring that patient experiences and perspectives are part of wider conversations about healthcare, treatment options and long-term wellbeing.

The event will bring together a range of voices to explore the realities of living with chronic conditions, the role of healthcare professionals, responsible prescribing and the support people may need throughout their treatment journey.

What will the broadcast cover?

Broadcast live from British Cannabis headquarters in Wokingham, the programme will feature panel discussions, expert interviews and audience Q&As.

Topics will include:

Patient perspectives: Exploring the realities of living with chronic conditions, navigating treatment options and managing quality of life.
The role of clinicians: Understanding the place of cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) within UK healthcare, including patient assessment and responsible prescribing.
Safety and regulation: Examining product quality, regulation, patient monitoring and safeguards around medical cannabis.
Functionality and quality of life: Discussing lower-intoxicating cannabinoid options, CBD, stigma and maintaining day-to-day wellbeing.
Support beyond treatment: Considering the role of carers, patient organisations, education, rehabilitation and multidisciplinary care.
The journey of a prescription: Exploring the stages involved in accessing medical cannabis treatment, from clinical assessment and prescribing through to product quality assurance and patient follow-up.

The discussions aim to encourage a more informed conversation about patient choice, safety and the different considerations involved in accessing and navigating treatment.

Why patient voices matter

At Different Strokes, we understand that life after stroke can bring a wide range of challenges, and that individual experiences, needs and priorities matter.

Being part of this event provides an opportunity for patient organisations to contribute to conversations about healthcare and quality of life, helping ensure that the perspectives of people living with long-term health conditions are heard alongside clinical and industry expertise.

The broadcast will also explore the importance of support beyond a prescription, including the contribution of carers, rehabilitation and ongoing patient support.

Different Strokes is pleased to join the Cannabis Industry Council, Parkinsons.me and other contributors in supporting this conversation.