The Stroke HIT Lived Experience Group brings together people with direct experience of stroke and stroke services in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG), with representatives from Healthwatch and stroke charities (Stroke Association/Bristol After Stroke). It aims to provide advice and assist with the co-design of stroke research and service evaluation projects as directed by the HIT.
Having a formal structure which directly links the Stroke HIT and the BNSSG Stroke Programme Board also provides a means for stroke affected people to have their voices heard by senior decision makers within the health and social care system. It enables them to comment on and influence the design of stroke services and quality outcomes, along with offering insight into the effectiveness of stroke focused education and training provision.
The Lived Experience Group is led by Claire Angell, a stroke survivor.