Bus drivers get on board

North-east staff to be taught to recognise symptoms of strokes

North-east bus drivers will be taught to recognise the signs of stroke as part of a major campaign to help save lives. Working with NHS Grampian and charity Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS), First Aberdeen is incorporating the Fast message into its driver training scheme.

Standing for Face, Arm, Speech and Time, Fast covers the main symptoms that people should be on the lookout for if they suspect someone is having a stroke.

Every year, more than 9,000 Scots have a stroke and it is hoped the campaign will help people to recognise what is happening faster so that they can, in turn, get them medical help sooner.

Therese Lebedis, stroke managed clinical network lead for NHS Grampian said: “A stroke often happens out of the blue, without warning, and is caused by an interruption of the blood flow to the brain, by either a blood clot or burst blood vessel.

“There are obvious symptoms to watch out for – can they smile, does one side of their face droop, can they raise both arms and keep them there?

“Slurred or muddled speech is another symptom, as well as visual problems, dizziness, headache and loss of balance.

“Time is critical if you suspect someone is having a stroke so we have launched this Think Fast campaign with First Bus Aberdeen to raise awareness of the typical symptoms of a stroke and underline the importance of getting medical attention quickly.”

The Fast message will also be displayed on notice boards and bus tickets on vehicles, to further raise awareness to passengers.

First Aberdeen operations director David Phillips said: “This is a very worthwhile campaign. Stroke is a serious issue and one we are proud to raise awareness of here at First Aberdeen, among our staff and our customers.

“Our staff are in contact with hundreds of individuals a day and hopefully this will make a difference to the lives of people in Grampian, if one of our drivers can spot the signs and symptoms and help any individual call 999.”

Gillian Harrold from CHSS said: “It is great to see NHS Grampian and First Bus Aberdeen work together to raise awareness of this important message.”

Photograph by Jim Irvine WORKING TOGETHER: Graeme Macfarlan of FirstGroup, Gillian Harrold and Therese Lebedis.