Volunteers needed for stroke support group

Volunteers needed for stroke support group
Survivors take part in a number of activities to aid in their rehabilitation

The Coastal Stroke Support and Carers Group is held every Tuesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Hunstanton Methodist Church.

The stroke group provides information, support and activities for survivors to exercise both their creative and motor skills. Local artist and craft-makers Maxine and Sue drop in once a month and hold creative workshops, encouraging members to take part in creating various artworks and crafts.

The church houses a relaxation room which functions as an area to destress, rebalance, meditate and learn relaxation techniques which can then be used at home. The meetings also provide carers with a momentary respite, safe in the knowledge that the meetups are a safe space for the survivors.

For the rest of the month the group host a number of social activities and welcome guests such as the Heacham Songsters, RSPB Titchwell and even a police officer to talk to them about avoiding falling victim to scams. They also hold communication and exercise classes run by a trained instructor.

Stroke1
The group is supported by a number of volunteers

Stroke survivors experience emotional, social and physical problems during their rehabilitation, which can often last months or years. Creative art therapy has been found to significantly decrease depression, improve physical functions and increase the quality of life in stroke survivors.

The support group is a voluntary group run by Stroke Association volunteers who help with all aspects of the meetups: from making cups of tea and coffee, helping with arts and crafts, transporting members and other aspects of supporting the group. The volunteers all praise the sense of satisfaction they receive from supporting the more vulnerable members of the community.

However, to help support the 40 or so members of the group, they are currently in need for volunteers willing to help out on Monday mornings as a way of giving back to the community.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for the Stroke Association, please contact Gemma Smith on 01366 377803 for more information.

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