New stroke rehabilitation unit opens to support patients in Dudley

A dedicated stroke rehabilitation unit has opened at Ridge Hill, helping patients continue their recovery, regain independence and prepare for life after hospital.

Based in Stourbridge, the Ridge Hill Stroke Rehabilitation Unit provides specialist rehabilitation for stroke patients who no longer need acute hospital care but still require therapy, nursing and support before returning home or moving to the most appropriate care setting.

The eight-bed unit provides a calm and supportive environment designed around recovery, with facilities including a full rehabilitation gym, daily living kitchen, quiet rooms, communal areas and a communal therapy garden.

Patients are supported to achieve their maximum level of independence following a stroke, with rehabilitation focused on improving functional ability, supporting communication and cognitive recovery, and preparing patients and their families for any ongoing rehabilitation and care needs.

The unit also plays an important role in supporting wider hospital services by helping patients move safely from hospital to rehabilitation, reducing length of stay and supporting timely discharge.

The community led service acts as a midway point, supporting stronger patient outcomes by avoiding an immediate return to home in situations where a patients needs can’t be fully met in their own home environment.

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.

“It is fantastic and extremely rewarding to work in an environment that empowers patients to regain their independence. Providing opportunities for meaningful rehab, both within the unit and outdoors, helps to rebuild confidence and skills in real world settings that are not always easily accessible in the acute hospital environments.”

“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 support with a range of rehabilitation needs, including mobility, strength, communication, cognition, daily living skills and preparing for discharge. The activities of the daily living kitchen allow patients to practise everyday tasks in a safe environment, while the rehabilitation gym and therapy spaces support personalised recovery plans.

Simon Clements, a patient 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.

“Having a community site with the garden space, built-in gym and kitchen area, enables me to feel much more confident in regaining my abilities. I still have a way to go, but I feel stronger and much better prepared for going home.”

Prior to its opening, patients with a Dudley GP did not have a dedicated inpatient stroke rehab facility within the borough, so this new site ensures patients can now stay closer to home for stroke rehabilitation treatment. It offers a blended approach of one-to-one rehab and group therapy; bringing nursing and therapy together in a state-of-the-art community setting.

Group Chief Executive for The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust Diane Wake 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.

“The opening of Ridge Hill Stroke Rehabilitation Unit means patients in Dudley can access specialist rehabilitation in a dedicated environment, with facilities designed to support their recovery.

“Ridge Hill showcases Dudley’s dedication to supporting the NHS 10 year plan in reducing pressure on acute hospitals and placing healthcare much closer to home in the local community. We are incredibly proud of this endeavour.”

In addition to clinical staff from the Dudley Group, community organisations can also utilise the space including Dudley Stroke Association who will be supporting with therapy gardening groups as well as plans to implement further support groups lead by patients who have experienced a stroke and can share their rehabilitation journeys.

James Weaver, Regional Director at Community Health Partnerships (CHP) said “The changes at Ridge Hill are another excellent example of how CHP are supporting the delivery of neighbourhood care.

“This project demonstrates the impact we can deliver through the PACE programme. Alongside our partners, the new stroke rehabilitation unit will deliver care closer to home and further utilise a fantastic LIFT asset. It will also allow a space for patients to recover in a modern, fit-for-purpose suite, outside of an acute hospital setting.”