Campaign launches to save lives of more stroke victims

A NEW campaign has been launched after it was revealed that Barnsley residents are ‘not acting fast’ to get lifesaving treatment in the first few hours after a stroke.

The new council scheme’s key message is designed to help people act fast on the possible symptoms of a stroke.

The campaign combines the symptoms people may already be aware of thanks to the national FAST campaign with the stories being seen in Barnsley.

In response to local data, the council has been working closely with its health and care partners to develop something different for Barnsley, rooted in local stories and experiences.

Research suggests that people in Barnsley are not acting fast to get vital lifesaving treatment in the critical first four and a half hours after having a stroke.

Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: “In Barnsley, we want to help everyone have the best possible chance of enjoying life in good health, crucially getting the right support at the right time.

“I’m therefore delighted to see our new stroke campaign launched for Barnsley, encouraging people to think twice about the sudden symptoms they may be experiencing and act fast to get the best possible treatment.

“I want to thank all the stroke survivors and their loved ones featured in the campaign – by telling your stories and sharing your experiences, you’re helping to save lives across Barnsley.”

The campaign also features their loved ones and the professionals supporting stroke survivors in Barnsley, showing how everyone can help look out for the signs in people around us.

Alongside the new campaign, Barnsley Council launched a short video, bringing together the stroke survivors they talked to with a simple, urgent call to action – act fast, call 999.

Wendy Lowder, place director for health and care across the town, added: “In Barnsley, we’re proud to do things differently and we’re passionate about working together across health and care to help our communities live happier, healthier lives.

“To us, there’s nothing more powerful than hearing from Barnsley people and sharing their experiences.

“We’re really excited about our new stroke campaign, which is a testament to the great partnerships we have in Barnsley.

“Together with our stroke cafés and survivors, this has been a real team effort which we hope will encourage people to come forward for support sooner.”