Stroke Association x Mind Cymru: Codesigning support with and for stroke survivors
The Challenge
The impact of stroke on a person’s mental health is significant and well documented - with experiences of depression, anxiety, mood swings, panic attacks and suicidal thoughts reported by survivors. There is little statutory emotional and psychological support available.
After an impactful local collaboration in Neath Port Talbot which tested a group-based programme for people struggling emotionally after a stroke, the Stroke Association and Mind Cymru - with help from Shift - wanted to step back and go through a service design process to gain an in-depth understanding of the experience of people struggling with their mental health post-stroke; and identify, test and prioritise potential solutions.
My role
Working closely with the teams at Stroke Association and Mind Cymru, I acted as lead researcher alongside a service designer. I was also responsible for the safety and engagement of stroke survivors throughout the project.
What I did
Recruited stroke survivors and healthcare professionals across Wales using social media, newsletters and stroke coordinators to make sure we heard from a range of people.
Held 1:1 discovery interviews with stroke survivors to explore experiences and needs in ways that worked for them, ensuring they were inclsuive and trauma sensitive.
Designed and hosted inclusive online ideation workshops with stroke survivors and healthcare professionals.
Developed, disseminated and analysed a Wales-wide online survey.
Recruited and worked with a lived experience storyteller to develop powerful deliverables.
Adapted recruitment, research and workshop materials for people with communication problems such as aphasia.
