A TEAM set up to support stroke patients in York has helped 132 people to be discharged from hospital in its first six months.

Since it was set up in April, the specialist team provides support and rehabilitation to patients at York Hospital who have suffered a stroke, helping them to move from hospital to home sooner than usual.

A consultant, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, a speech and language therapist, a dietician, assistants and a nurse all form the multidisciplinary team.

Of the 132 people it has helped return home, 46 were supported to leave hospital earlier due to the work of the team, York Hospital has said.

Ina James, therapy team leader for stroke, said: “Around 450 people a year are admitted to York Hospital having suffered a stroke.

“Early and intensive rehabilitation during the first three months after a stroke is critical in minimising the patient’s disability and improving their recovery.

“Evidence suggests that patients recover more rapidly at home. It is great to see that this service is achieving what we set out to do - helping support patients to lead independent lives."

One patient who was recovering from his second stroke commented that he had noticed a significant improvement in the after care, this time around with a seamless support service from rehabilitation through to arranging a blue disabled badge.

The work of the team was recently recognised at York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s annual Celebration of Achievement Awards.

York Vikings Rotary Club has also donated £1,000 for the team to purchase iPads, so that patients can access speech and language and occupational therapy apps to aid their rehabilitation at home.

Peter Acaster, President of York Vikings Rotary Club, said: “The donation has come through the Vikings Community Services Team which along with York Hospital is striving to make a real difference for the people of York."