Many stroke survivors suffering financial hardship
The Stroke Association reveal that almost half of stroke survivors across the UK, aged under 65, are faced with financial hardship after their stroke.
The charity’s findings reveal that more than 125,000 stroke survivors have experienced a loss of income, faced discrimination at work, and in some cases, have been forced to sell their home to pay for medical expenses.
The Stroke Association’s Lived Experience report is the UK’s largest ever survey of people affected by stroke(i) with over 11,000 responses. The second chapter (of four), The wider impact of stroke, shows how the impact of the condition affects people’s working life, relationships and finances.
There are currently over 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK, with a quarter of strokes happening to people of working age. The findings show the price tag that can come with a stroke, revealing that across the UK;
- Over half (51%) of stroke survivors aged under 65 gave up work or reduced their working hours following their stroke.
- Close to one in six (15%) of stroke survivors aged under 65 experienced discrimination, or missed out on a promotion, or said their employer was not supportive.
Juliet Bouverie, Chief Executive of the Stroke Association, said: “Life changes instantly after a stroke, and the condition can have a huge cost, not only to people’s finances, but also to their health, independence and relationships. But not enough people realise the wider impacts that stroke can bring. Overnight, a partner becomes a carer. A breadwinner becomes jobless.
“These latest figures show that many stroke survivors are facing a life on the edge of poverty; many have had to give up work, and in some cases, face discrimination from their employers. This comes at a time when financial worries should be the last thing on their minds.”:
Published: by Radio NewsHub