23/01/2026
On the Acute Stroke Unit, the therapy teams have worked collaboratively to introduce an interdisciplinary therapy group aimed at improving rehabilitation outcomes while making the best use of therapy time with stroke patients.
The group is jointly run by therapy assistants from Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Speech and Language Therapy.
These groups have been running successfully for over a year, with very positive feedback from patients. The sessions support patients to work on skills affected by stroke, including cognitive function, upper limb movement, communication, and social interaction.
The content of the groups varies from week to week. Activities have included bingo and other group games, arts and crafts sessions, and group discussions focused on weekly current affairs. These activities provide meaningful, engaging opportunities for patients to practice a range of functional skills in a supportive group environment.
Initially, resources for the sessions were sourced from items available on the ward or provided by therapy staff themselves. However, in the lead-up to the Christmas period, we approached the League of Friends and Tesco at Roborough to ask whether they could support us with supplies to run themed Christmas craft sessions.
We were extremely grateful to receive a £40 Tesco gift card, and a generous bag of craft supplies from the League of Friends. Thanks to this support, we were able to run festive craft groups where patients created salt dough decorations, sock snowmen, a variety of paper Christmas decorations, and a Christmas tree display on the ward made from patient handprints.
These groups have been highly successful, allowing us to see more patients at one time while delivering meaningful therapy. Most importantly, they have provided patients with enjoyment, social connection, and a welcome sense of normality during what can often be a very challenging and upsetting time.
