LOCAL MP CALLS FOR A NEW AMBITION FOR STROKE IN NORTH OXFORDSHIRE

Tony Baldry backs new Stroke Association campaign

North Oxfordshire MP, Tony Baldry, is today backing The Stroke Association’s call for his constituents to get involved in a major Government consultation on the future of stroke services in their area.

Stroke is the third biggest killer in the UK and the biggest cause for serious adult disability. On average around 60,000 people each year are likely to die from stroke and at least 300,000 people are living with moderate to severe mental disabilities as a result of stroke in England. As the population ages these figures are set to increase.  Oxfordshire is projected to soon have more people aged over 75 years than under the age of 5 years living in the county.

The standard of stroke services varies widely across England, and 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.

Tony Baldry MP said:

“There are many people in Banbury and Bicester 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.”