By clicking on this link you can view the scottish_manifesto_2021.

It is the manifesto of the Stroke Association in Scotland offering a blueprint and an opportunity for all candidates in the Scottish Parliamentary election to improve life for everyone affected by stroke, while making the best use of public money.

Here are the key points in the document    

1.The Stroke Association in Scotland calls for the next Scottish Government to quickly establish a new progressive stroke service – one in which all patients receive timely access to evidence-based, stroke specialist treatment, rehabilitation sand support

2. Urgently progress and build on the current work to improve stroke services.

3. Establish a regular reporting mechanism to Parliament, to track progress and ensure  transparency and accountability. The scale of stroke, and the need for urgent
and renewed national action requires a Minister to report to ‘the people’ via
Parliament. This doesn’t happen at the moment. A regular reporting mechanism would ensure MSPs can really be involved in overseeing progress on behalf of their constituents, many of whom are affected directly or indirectly by stroke.

4. Work with people affected by stroke, stroke charities and professionals to understand the impact of stroke on people’s lives. 

Some key numbers from the Manifesto*

• Around 10,000 people a year of all ages have a stroke in Scotland
• Around 120,000 people are currently living in Scotland with the effects of stroke. By 2035 it is estimated there may be as many as 175,000
• It is estimated that by 2025 the cost to the NHS and Social Care in Scotland will be £2.5 billion a year
• By 2035, the cost could rise to £4.5 billion

But why not take a moment to read the short document for yourself by going back to that link above? Who knows? You may find it interesting, enjoyable, informative – inspirational even. Why not make sure any prospective candidates who contact you or knock on your door get to know these facts and the opportunity it could present to them to support their constituents, many of whom will have been affected by stroke – or feel free to email the short document to them.

And of course you can always invite them to follow this blog, for stimulus, entertainment and information.

*all data above is fully referenced in the document.