There are four stroke support groups in Dublin run by the Volunteer Stroke Scheme, located in Castleknock, Kilmore, Crumlin and Dundrum. 
These clubs play a vital role in the rehabilitation of stroke patients, providing emotional support at a very vulnerable time in stroke patient’s lives, i.e. when they leave hospital. Stroke patients and families can feel isolated and alone having left the comfort zone of hospital and the support of hospital staff.
What do the groups do?
Bridie Lyons organises two of the groups - Taney on Tuesday mornings and Crumlin on Thursday. As well as providing emotional support, the clubs provide physiotherapy and brain challenging activities such quizzes, musical mornings, scrabble, and card games such as bridge. Invited guest speakers provide relevant information on health and security issues and relaxing techniques to those affected by stroke. Outings and social occasions provided by the clubs help to rebuild the stroke survivor’s confidence. During the past two years these groups have visited Croke Park Museum and Stadium, Aviva Stadium, Art Gallery, the Dail, Powerscourt Gardens and have lunched in various restaurants in the Dublin area. A respite holiday is organised each autumn. Volunteers (some of whom are stroke survivors) play a very important role in working of the clubs, providing transport and helping out with the activities.
Contact the Volunteer Stroke Scheme office on 01 4559036 for a referral to a group near you.
