One in 5 stroke survivors 'receive no physiotherapy'

One fifth of stroke survivors in the UK receive no post-hospital physiotherapy on the NHS, a new survey has revealed.

In addition, almost three-quarters of physiotherapists felt unable to deliver "best outcomes" for stroke patients, according to the survey produced by the Stroke Association (TSA) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP).

The survey forms part of the Moving On report, published by the two organisations to highlight the importance of access to physiotherapy for stroke survivors and the role it plays in helping regain mobility and confidence.

"Rehabilitation can make a huge difference to stroke survivors' recovery, so we must ensure that everyone receives physiotherapy if they need it, both in hospital and when they get back into the community," said TSA chief executive Jon Barrick.

The Moving On report contains guidance to help NHS commissioners use physiotherapy resources effectively, said Phil Gray, chief executive of the CSP.

In February, the National Audit Office claimed that although care for stroke survivors had got better, it had not improved as much as more acute care services.

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