A BROMSGROVE-based organisation has made up to £16,000 available to stroke survivors and their carers living in the West Midlands.

The Stroke Association which has its national headquarters on Church Lane in Bromsgrove is giving out Life after Stroke grants of £200.

The grants help people with the cost of travel to hospital appointments, paying for a washing machine or new bed, or paying for the cost of respite care, so that carers and loved ones can take a necessary rest.

Applications can be submitted by health professionals, social workers, Stroke Association staff or anyone who works with stroke survivors and a panel will allocate the grants to people who meet the eligibility criteria and are deemed to be most in need.

Hugh Tibbits, regional head of operations, for the Stroke Association in the West Midlands, said: “A stroke happens in an instant, yet for many people, its effects are devastating and last a lifetime. A quarter of strokes happen to people of working age; many are left unable to resume work and are forced into financial hardship. These grants will help with some of the practical needs that many stroke survivors can face, such as providing a decent night’s sleep, or covering the cost of heating bills.

“Throughout Christmas, the Stroke Association is raising funds to award more grants across the UK, and we hope to help even more people rebuild their lives after a stroke.”

Anyone wanting to support the charity, which relies on donations in order to make the Life After Stroke grants, should visit stroke.org.uk/appeal to make a donation, or call 0300 3300740.