The Stroke Early Supported Discharge (ESD) service at Frimley Park Hospital is celebrating 10 years of helping patients to relearn everyday skills and begin to rebuild their lives.

The ESD service has supported more than 1,800 stroke patients since it was formed in October 2011 – including 222 in the past year.

The 14-strong team of stroke specialists, including a nurse, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, rehabilitation technicians and speech and language therapists help people who have suffered a stroke to leave hospital sooner.

Patients who would previously have stayed in hospital for rehabilitation therapy can instead receive up to six weeks of hospital-level support at home or in the community.

Clare Watson, stroke ESD manager, said: “That wouldn’t have been possible a decade ago because the therapy available in the community wouldn’t have had the same intensity or specialise in stroke care.

“Now our team members go to a patient’s home – sometimes multiple times during the day.”

The support and therapy provided is matched to the patient’s specific needs. Some may need support with getting up and dressed in the morning while others may need help with their memory or speech and language. They are also taught about the stroke, the medication they are on and their general health.

Clare said: “The care is tailored to the patient’s own goals and environment – and it means so much because a hospital is such an alien environment compared to someone’s own home.

“The patient’s goals could range from communicating more easily - allowing things like speaking at a wedding - to caring for themselves and their children, returning to work or being able to participate in a multitude of hobbies.

“And by working with the patient in their own home, it’s easier for us to involve their family too.”

The Stroke ESD team is one of few nationally to be hosted by an acute trust – most are run by community trusts.