A weekly walk which takes place in Hesketh Park in Southport has become an integral part of the recovery plan for some of the stroke patients at Southport Hospital, thanks to the Stroke Early Supported Discharge (ESD) Team.
The walking group was set up in May 2024 by Senior Physiotherapist, Joel Morgan, and over the last year it has gone from strength to strength, providing a number of benefits including improved physical function, mental wellbeing and social interaction.
The group enjoys a walk around the lake, including different routes and terrain dependent on ability, or for the competitive walker, taking on the step pedometer.
It’s also the perfect environment to practice cognitive communication and visual scanning skills. The walk finishes with tea, scones and a good chat in the park’s café, where the patients are joined by The Stroke Association and Stroke Nurse who provide essential advice and reassurance in an informal setting.
Joel said: “Each week, the average patient covers at least ½ mile. Since the creation of the group, we have seen amazing results both physically and psychologically for our patients, with many friendships formed too.
“We’ve had some incredible feedback over the last year and we’re continually looking at ways to develop the walking group further.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of staff on Ward 15B at Southport Hospital and the team of Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, Dieticians and Therapy Assistants.”
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