KEETCH CALLS FOR 'A NEW AMBITION FOR STROKE' IN HEREFORDSHIRE

11.53.41pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 26th Jul 2007

Paul Keetch, MP for Hereford is backing The Stroke Association's call for his constituents to get involved in a major Government consultation on the future of stroke services in the area.

Whilst a recent national survey has shown a general improvement in stroke care, over a third of people who have a stroke are still not treated on a stroke unit which can save lives and reduce disability.

The Government is developing a new National Strategy for Stroke aimed at modernising stroke prevention, treatment and care and a consultation document called "A new ambition for stroke" has been published so that people can have their say on how stroke services can be changed or improved.

Mr Keetch said, "There are many people in Herefordshire who have been affected by stroke. It is a devastating condition that can strike anyone at anytime and we urgently need to see improvements in stroke services and increased public awareness of the symptoms and risk factors for stroke.

"The new National Strategy for Stroke will be much stronger if as many people as possible who have experience of stroke or an interest in stroke services, take part in the consultation process. This includes stroke survivors, their carers, family members and health and social care professionals."

Stroke is the third biggest killer in the UK and the biggest cause of serious adult disability. On average this year around 60,000 people each year are likely to die from stroke and at least 300,000 people are living with moderate to severe disabilities as a result of stroke in England. As the population ages these figures are set to increase.

For further information on how to get involved in the consultation process, please contact The Stroke Association Campaigns Hotline on 020 7566 1510, e-mail campaigns@stroke.org.uk or visit the Campaigns section of The Stroke Association website at www.stroke.org.uk