Help for Stroke Survivors UK
Find A Stroke Support Group
We have a network of exercise and stroke support groups providing help for stroke survivors across the UK.
Each group is run by a volunteer-coordinator. Many of our coordinators are stroke survivors themselves.
Please do contact our Head Office first by calling 0345 130 7172 or emailing info@differentstrokes.co.uk so that we can help you find the group or identify other services in your local area.
Our network of peer support and exercise groups empowers younger stroke survivors and carers to reclaim their lives by:
- Learning more about stroke and how to cope with it by talking to others in the same situation
- Feeling less isolated and more confident about life after stroke
- Optimising recovery
- Regaining as much independence as possible.
Our support groups are run by stroke survivor volunteers who are supported by our Volunteer & Group Network Coordinator. Activities include guest speakers, group outings and exercise. Exercise been shown to lift mood, reduce stress and increase self-confidence, carrying on where physiotherapy has left off. ‘Exercise can not only prevent stroke, but its use following a stroke enhances the plasticity of the brain allowing it to remodel itself leading to a better and faster recovery’ Pankaj Sharma, Different Strokes Medical Advisor.
Here is what some of our group members have said about their experiences at our groups:
“Once physiotherapy has stopped you are just left on your own. At the Different Strokes exercise group there is no competition, I feel supported. Which encourages me to keep motivating myself to do more. The social side has also been helpful, and we have a laugh too.”
“Until you become a carer for a family member you do not realise how hard it can be! without the support and care of the Different Strokes group life would be a lot lonelier and scarier”
“I really valued being able to talk through how to manage my energy levels with the group. Having advice first hand from others who have also suffered a stroke and have a real insight into what you may be feeling is just so beneficial to me.”
If there isn’t a group in your area why not set one up yourself? To find out what’s involved email caroline.saunders@differentstrokes.co.uk, or ring 01908 317618 or 0345 130 7172. The role of a Volunteer Group Co-ordinator can be very rewarding, and we’ll give you all the information and support you need to run a successful support and exercise group.
Webinar: Dealing with Post-Stroke Fatigue
A large number of stroke survivors have to learn to cope with Neuro fatigue following their stroke. A panel of 3 stroke survivors will tell us about their experiences coping with fatigue. They will explain what can or could trigger their fatigue and how they personally deal with it day to day.
Join Us This September for Our Events – Life After Stroke: Identity, Experience and Insight
We’re excited to announce the return of our in-person stroke community events this autumn and this year, we’re focusing on three words that matter deeply to stroke survivors: identity, experience and insight.
Professor Pankaj Sharma Awarded OBE in King’s Birthday Honours 2025
We are delighted to share the news that Professor Pankaj Sharma who has served as a medical advisor to Different Strokes for many years has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025.
Webinar: How to Identify Red Flags in the Prevention and Treatment of Stroke
Join us on 2nd July in this FREE webinar and Q&A, led by Laura Barlow of Bolt Burdon Kemp.
Richard Djan-Krofa Wins the 2025 Different Strokes Outstanding Contribution Award
We are delighted to announce that Richard Djan-Krofa has been awarded the 2025 Different Strokes Outstanding Contribution Award. This annual honour recognises a volunteer who has gone above and beyond in their service to the charity and wider stroke community. With more than 15 years of committed service, Richard is a truly deserving recipient.
Fundraising Heroes of 2025: The Tom Collins Fundraising Team
We are proud to announce our Fundraising Heroes of 2025: the extraordinary Tom Collins Fundraising Team. This recognition honours not just their dedication to raising vital funds and awareness, but also the love, friendship and strength that has inspired a legacy of hope in the face of heartbreaking loss.
This is a story of friendship, family, grief and legacy.
