Active Sussex’s stroke rehab pilot improves patient recovery

An innovative stroke rehabilitation programme designed to address inactivity among stroke patients has been hailed a remarkable success after improving patient recovery. Funded by the Active Partnership, Active Sussex, the pilot has the potential to reshape the role of exercise within hospital care nationwide.

Delivered in partnership with East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Active Rother, East Sussex Public Health, and 20/20 Health, the Active Sussex Reconditioning Pilot provided 26 weeks of supervised physical activity sessions led by health instructors from 20/20 Health, alongside physiotherapists at the Irvine Rehabilitation Unit at Bexhill Hospital, part of East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust.

The initiative also supported patients in transitioning to community-based exercise programmes to ensure long-term, active lifestyles. Patients benefited from four sessions a week in the hospital in addition to community-based provision in Hastings, Bexhill, Lewes and Eastbourne. Running for six months, the pilot included 54 exercise sessions, giving patients an average of nine extra hours of exercise during their stay.

Early data analysis shows patients experienced a 50 per cent improvement in balance, a 34 per cent increase in sit-to-stand ability, and a 22 per cent reduction in rehabilitation complexity – offering them greater independence and improved recovery.

Karen Poole, AHP Rehabilitation Consultant for East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust and Strategic Clinical Lead for Rehabilitation & Reablement at NHS Sussex, said the collaboration between the NHS and a local community health instructor provider has delivered significant positive impacts. The activity groups increased access to physical and social activity for patients recovering at the Irvine Rehabilitation Unit, contributing to their mood, wellbeing and a positive culture across our workforce.”