Use the numbers below to contact our Stroke Therapy Team.
- Acute Stroke Unit: 01904 726852
- White Cross Court in York: 01904 724443
- Waters Ward in Bridlington: 01262 423118
- Community Stroke Team: 01904 725382
Stroke Therapy Team
The Stroke Therapy Team provides specialist assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation for people following a stroke, supporting them to maximise recovery, regain independence, and resume meaningful daily activities.
The team is made up of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, dietitians, and therapy assistants.
Where to find us
The team works across several locations:
- Acute Stroke Unit, York Hospital
- White Cross Court
- Waters Ward, Bridlington Hospital
- In the community (Vale of York area)
Physiotherapy
Stroke physiotherapists assess and treat people who have had a stroke. They help manage the physical problems caused by stroke and support recovery. The aim of physiotherapy is to help people become as independent as possible and stay physically active.
Each patient is assessed and given a personalised treatment plan with clear goals. These goals may include improving walking, balance, and the use of the affected arm and hand.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapists help people take part in everyday activities after illness or injury. This includes tasks such as washing and dressing, making meals, leisure activities, driving, and returning to work.
Each patient is assessed on an individual basis to understand their needs. Treatment focuses on practising the activities patients want to do independently. Therapists also work on the skills needed to complete these tasks, such as movement (especially of the arm and hand), using the senses, and coping with problems like anxiety or memory difficulties.
Occupational therapists also consider a person’s home environment and may carry out assessments in patients’ homes. A treatment plan is agreed upon with each patient, and goals are set together to help achieve the best possible outcome.
Speech and language therapy
Speech and language therapists assess and support people who have communication or swallowing problems after a stroke.
This support may include:
- one-to-one therapy to help improve communication
- help with communication so people can take part in other therapies and plan for going home
- assessment and support for swallowing problems
- working closely with families and carers, including taking part in family meetings
- training other healthcare staff on how best to support people with communication and swallowing difficulties
Dietetic support
The Dietetic Team helps people recover from illness or injury by making sure they get the right food and fluids. Good nutrition and hydration help the body heal and stay strong.
This support helps with:
- energy for therapy activities
- muscle strength and function
- cognitive function and concentration
- skin integrity and wound healing
- a reduced risk of complications
- better immune function
- better overall rehabilitation outcomes
- prevention of malnutrition and dehydration
- York and Scarborough Hospitals Stroke Rehab YouTube: A collection of advice and exercise videos from trusted organisations to support people recovering after a stroke.
- Stroke passport: This document is given to people who have had a stroke and need ongoing therapy at a stroke rehabilitation unit. It includes lots of helpful information and resources to support recovery.
- York Community Stroke Team leaflet
