The West Yorkshire Association of Acute Trusts (WYAAT) has launched a new ‘All Things Stroke’ website, to support local patients, their families and carers with resources and support relating to stroke.

Designed in collaboration with local stroke survivors, the voluntary sector, and healthcare professionals, the website acts as a ‘one-stop-shop’ and online directory for stroke advice and information, as well as support groups which can be filtered via location to show results in a user’s local community.

The idea to create a West Yorkshire and Harrogate specific stroke website came about after a stroke co-production group, made up of stroke patients, carers, and healthcare professionals, identified that existing resources for those affected by stroke could be improved by being less ‘rigid’ and providing a more ‘person-centred approach’. When considering the individual everyday challenges stroke survivors often experience during their recovery, topics such as managing post-stroke fatigue, returning to work, and navigating the complexities of driving after a stroke were all raised as crucial areas in which patients needed more support after being discharged from hospital.

The All Things Stroke website, facilitated by West Yorkshire and Harrogate Integrated Stroke Delivery Network (ISDN), aims to provide users with an accessible, user-friendly online directory that offers not only details of local support services but also guidance on important post-stroke issues. The resource intends to empower stroke survivors and their carers with the information and support they need to manage their recovery in a more holistic and informed way.

Retired university lecturer, Robert Minton-Taylor, 77, who suffered from a stroke in 2019, is a member of the co-production group. He said: “All Things Stroke website is a game changer for stroke survivors, partners, carers, and friends. While my rehabilitation care at Airedale General Hospital was incredible, I could have done with an easily accessible website like this after my discharge from hospital.”

Fellow co-production group member and stroke survivor, Nathan Stone, 45, from Cleckheaton, said: “We have worked hard to ensure the website provides down to earth advice about where to find help over and above the advice that GPs and hospitals can provide in an easily searchable format and in plain English.

“The site will provide the reassurance stroke survivors within West Yorkshire and Harrogate need after what is a scary experience and the inevitable long road to recovery from one.”

Matt Spencer, ISDN Manager, said: "It has been a privilege to work alongside stroke survivors, carers, and dedicated professionals to develop the All Things Stroke website. I hope the resource brings clarity, support, and a sense of empowerment to those navigating their stroke recovery, helping them feel informed and connected every step of the way."

Phase two of the website, planned for 2026, will launch a dedicated section for health and care professionals, including GPs, clinicians, therapists, social prescribers, and care coordinators. This new section will provide vital training materials to empower professionals to deliver even better care, improving patient outcomes throughout their rehabilitation journey and beyond.

Visit the website at www.wyh-allthingsstroke.nhs.uk.