Improvements to stroke rehabilitation services across Derby and Derbyshire

Stroke rehabilitation services are to be improved in parts of Derby and Derbyshire, thanks to feedback from patients and carers.

For the first time, an Early Supported Stroke Discharge service is being introduced in the High Peak.

This six week programme supports people with mild to moderate disabilities to leave hospital sooner and continue their rehabilitation at home, helping people regain independence and reducing the length of hospital stays.

In response to concerns about gaps in emotional and mental health support, stroke specific psychological support is also being expanded.

A psychologist will be recruited and will help people adjust after leaving hospital, engage more confidently with their rehabilitation, and continue their recovery at home.

Long term support after formal rehabilitation will also be strengthened. The Stroke Association is bringing together two existing services to create a single, joined up programme for people across Derbyshire.

The improvements, which are being introduced this year, follow extensive public engagement carried out in autumn 2024 where the NHS asked people to share their views on what works well and where services could be improved.

This followed a review which showed that stroke rehabilitation support varied depending on where people lived, and that demand for services was increasing.

Feedback gathered through public workshops, surveys and conversations has directly shaped the changes now being introduced.

The new programme will offer more consistent peer support, including additional support groups and group learning sessions.

Dr Dave Briggs Executive Director of Outcomes (Medical) NHS Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board, said:
“We know that our current stroke rehabilitation services vary across Derby and Derbyshire, meaning not everyone receives the same level of support at the right time.

“People told us that staff are compassionate and skilled, but that access to services, follow up care and emotional support can be inconsistent. The improvements we are introducing are a direct result of that feedback.

“We are also dedicated to ensuring ongoing patient involvement through our Stroke Rehabilitation Working Group.

“We commit to listening to our patients to make sure stroke rehabilitation continues to reflect what matters most to patients and their families.”