A NEW stroke rehabilitation unit has opened in Stourbridge.
Located at Ridge Hill, the Ridge Hill Stroke Rehabilitation Unit serves patients from Dudley who no longer need hospital care but still require therapy and support before returning home or to another care setting.
The facility features a rehabilitation gym, daily living kitchen, quiet rooms, communal areas and a communal therapy garden.
Michelle Rogers, team leader at Ridge Hill, said: "It has been incredibly exciting to be part of this development.
"We are so passionate about stroke rehabilitation and ensuring the people of Dudley have equitable access to high-quality services.
"The feedback from patients and their families has been so positive, and we are already seeing significant improvements in patient outcomes, which is a testament to the dedication of entire team working here."
The unit provides targeted support to improve mobility, communication and daily living skills, and helps patients gain greater independence after a stroke.
Simon Clements, who is receiving care at Ridge Hill, said: "After my stroke I wasn’t sure how much independence I would get back.
"The team here have been brilliant.
"They have taken the time to encourage me when things feel hard, the support has really helped build my confidence."
Patients in Dudley previously had to travel outside the borough for inpatient stroke rehabilitation.
Diane Wake, group chief executive for The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said: "A stroke can have a life-changing impact, not only for the person affected, but for their loved ones too.
"Rehabilitation is a vital part of recovery, helping people rebuild their lives, build confidence, independence and the skills they need."
Community groups, including the Dudley Stroke Association, will also use the site to offer therapy gardening sessions and peer-led support groups.
The Ridge Hill unit forms part of wider efforts to reduce pressure on acute hospital beds by delivering care closer to home.
