Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland renews partnership with University of Strathclyde to further pioneering stroke research

The University of Strathclyde and Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS) have renewed a long-standing partnership to revolutionise support for stroke survivors. 

The Sir Jules Thorn Co-Creation Centre for Rehabilitation Technology at the University has helped more than 120 stroke survivors with a cutting-edge, technology-driven approach.  

The Centre has been supported by CHSS since 2022, with funding for two research assistants, who design and supervise the pioneering rehabilitation programme and manage the day-to-day operation of the centre.  

Under the leadership of Dr Andrew Kerr, staff and research students harness technology to improve rehab outcomes for stroke survivors, such as a treadmill with a harness to support those with balance or mobility issues, and AI games with adapted controllers that help to recover dexterity. 

The Strathclyde centre empowers users to take a self-managed approach to rehabilitation, a method shown to deliver better recovery outcomes. Participants have demonstrated improvements across various measures of function and quality of life, beyond physical mobility. 

Dr Kerr’s team are also working with CHSS and the NHS on establishing the technology-based exercise programme in community settings, such as gyms and leisure centres. 

The new agreement cements partnership activities for a further three years and is part of Strathclyde’s Social Innovation Cluster. 

Professor Tim Bedford, Strathclyde Associate Principal, who signed the Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the University, said: “We are delighted to extend our very successful partnership with Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland, which has supported research work to ensure that stroke survivors receive the ongoing support they need.” 

Paul Okroj, the Director of External Engagement and Service Development at CHSS, said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with the University of Strathclyde, reinforcing our mutual commitment to revolutionise stroke rehabilitation and Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s mission to ensure the right to rehabilitation for everyone across Scotland. 

“This continued collaboration will further empower us to merge cutting-edge technology with expert care, improving recovery and ensuring there is no life half lived for stroke survivors across the community.” 

Stroke is one of Scotland’s biggest killers and a leading cause of severe disability. Two thirds of stroke survivors will leave hospital with a disability and a third will have to give up work as a result of their stroke. 

If you’re living with the effects of a chest, heart or stroke condition or Long Covid and looking for advice and information, please contact Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0899. You can also text ADVICE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.