Strength in Stroke: Sharing Stories, Reclaiming Lives

We are delighted to announce that this October we will be holding two face-to-face events, sponsored by Bolt Burdon Kemp.

These get-togethers, titled ‘Strength in Stroke: Sharing Stories, Reclaiming Lives’ are the first time that we will have had a large number of stroke survivors from our community together in a room since 2019. They will provide an opportunity to talk with each other, share your experiences, and to be inspired in your recovery journey.

When & Where?

Reading Event

When: Saturday 7^th October, 10:30 – 15:00

Where: Highfield Park Hotel, Church Lane, Heckfield, Hook, RG27 0LG

Sheffield Event

When: Saturday 14^th October, 10:30 – 15:00

Where: Mercure Sheffield Parkway Hotel, Britannia Way, Catcliffe, Sheffield S60 5BD

What to expect?

At both events you will hear from our CEO, Austin Willett, discussing our current work and priorities at Different Strokes.

You will also hear a keynote address from a stroke survivor at each event. In Reading, we are joined by Formula 1 Presenter Jennie Gow. In Sheffield, we hear from Carole Pyke, a two-time stroke survivor, and popular inspirational speaker from the Different Strokes community.

There will also be the opportunity to meet a few commercial partners that provide products and services for stroke survivors, who will have an exhibition stand at the events.

As part of the day we are planning a number of facilitated discussion groups on a range of areas. These include fatigue, returning to work post-stroke, functional electrical stimulation, caring for a stroke survivor, mental health, and memory loss. At the point of booking, you will be asked to indicate which of these sessions you would be most interested in attending.

There will be a quiet space to take a break if you need to and plenty of opportunities to chat.

We are also looking for any attendees who would be willing to film their Survivor Story on the day.

How much are tickets and what's included?

Numbers are limited for these events, so if you would like to come it is essential that you purchase a ticket.

The cost of a ticket for the event is £10, which includes lunch and refreshments.

Why are you charging?

We have decided to charge a fee this year because when we have held free events before we have had a large number of people who have booked but then not turned up on the day. As there is the possibility that there may be more people interested in attending than we have spaces available, it is important for us to keep no-shows to a minimum. Therefore, we are asking for people to pay £10 to ensure that they are committed to attending on the day. We are heavily subsidising the cost per person.

What if I can't afford it?

We are aware this cost may not be affordable for everyone. if you would really like to attend but would struggle to meet the cost, please contact us at info@differentstrokes.co.uk and we can look at arranging a place for you.

How do I book?

I want to book at the hotel - is there special rates?

There is a limited number of rooms available at a discounted rate. We advise you to book early to avoid disappointment.

The Reading event is at Highfield Park Hotel. Bedrooms are all subject to availability and can be booked by calling 0118 932 6369 and going through to bedroom reservations – let them know you are attending an event put on by Different Strokes.

The Sheffield event is at Mercure Sheffield Parkway Hotel. Guests can contact Khavel through email at UK3EventsMSheffieldParkway@Jupiterhotels.com and quote ‘Different Strokes’ they will provide you with a discounted rate. This is on a first-come, first-served basis and you are advised to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.