Tameside Resident Supported to Walk Again After Lifechanging Stroke

Dean from Hyde has been supported by Tameside Council’s Reablement Service after a life-changing stroke, not only changing his life, but his family’s lives too.

Returning home from hospital, Dean felt isolated and uncertain but with short-term support from the service he no longer needs ongoing care.

Reablement is a short-term, free service provided at home, giving people the opportunity to regain lost skills after a spell in hospital or illness.

Dean said: ‘’ We’ve never experienced a situation like this, so after I came home, we had no idea where to start or what support we could get.

 ‘’I’m so grateful that Reablement’s support workers came in. They were patient and provided personalised ways and equipment to help me, most of it I never even knew existed.’’

Dean’s goal was simple yet challenging, to walk again and climb the stairs independently.

He continued: ‘’Working with Kath and other support workers and Physiotherapy gave me the confidence to start trying to wash, dress and even get up the stairs on my own. I’m proud to say less than a year after my stroke, I’m able to do the things that matter to me.’’

With the help of a medication carousel, Dean was also able to make sure he was taking his medication on his own.

Dean and his family have also been signposted to other support, including  Tameside Carers Centre, which can support Dean’s partner, and Tameside Council’s Community Response Service telecare support for extra peace of mind for himself and his family.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Adult Social Care Cllr John Taylor said: “I’ve had the opportunity to meet Dean and hear his story first-hand. His determination is truly inspiring, and he clearly demonstrates the life‑changing and positive impact that Reablement can have.

 ‘’By working together, it’s encouraging to see how hopeful he is for the future. Thank you to the team for working so closely with Dean and his family, and for listening to what is important to them all during such a difficult time.”

Reablement is considered as one of the first steps of support when someone approaches adult social care’s Early Support and Advice Hub (ESAH). By working collaboratively, their aim is to keep people living independently and safely in the place they call home.

Find more information on Reablement at https://www.tameside.gov.uk/adults/reablement or call 0161 922 4888 (select option 1) 

Find out more information on the Carers Centre and drop-in support times at www.tameside.gov.uk/carerscentre or call 0161 342 3344.

Find out more about CRS and how they can support you or a loved one at www.tameside.gov.uk/crs or call 0161 342 5100.