Volunteer Cornwall are running an exciting new befriending service to support adults living in Cornwall who have had a stroke.
The Stroke Befriending Service (commissioned by Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust) will match people who have had a stroke with trained befrienders who can offer support and encouragement.
Befrienders can visit people living with stroke at home, in a care home or in hospital (including specialist stroke units at Camborne Redruth Community Hospital, Bodmin Community Hospital and Mount Gould in Plymouth). The service is even available via email, phone or video call, meaning that people can speak to someone who understands, regardless of where they live in Cornwall.
Moira who is one of our valued Stroke Befrienders, said that when someone visited her who understood, it completely changed her life. It gave her hope and built her confidence, and she now runs her own stroke group. Moira is just one example of the life changing impact a service like this can have.
Who can receive Stroke Befriending?
Individuals living in Cornwall who:
- Would like to speak to a befriender
- Are over 18 years old
- Have a diagnosis of stroke (with or without communication difficulties)
- Are registered with a GP in Cornwall
For more information download a copy of our A5 leaflet for professionals and service users linked below:
Stroke Befriending Leaflet for Professionals and Service Users
How do I make a referral?
We can take referrals for the Stroke Befriending Service from:
- Health and social care professionals
- Family members and friends
- Charities and community groups
- Self-referrals
Please note that the person who would like a befriender must give consent for their details to be given to Volunteer Cornwall before a referral can be made.
To make a referral, call Volunteer Cornwall on 01872 266997 or email a completed form to stroke@volunteercornwall.org.uk