ReConnect Gloucestershire

Life after Stroke

What if every person with aphasia or recovering from stroke felt truly understood, valued, and connected?

That’s the future we’re building.

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What We Do

Befriending and support groups for people affected by stroke and aphasia as well as their carers.

  • Our STROKE HOME BEFRIENDING service connects stroke survivors with trained befrienders who have also experienced stroke. We reserve this service for those unable to access telephone or group support.

    It’s peer support in action, sharing understanding, reducing isolation and rebuilding confidence, one conversation at a time. Aphasia isn’t a barrier as our befrienders are trained in communication techniques. 

  • Our STROKE TELEPHONE BEFRIENDING service connects stroke survivors and those affected by aphasia with supportive trained volunteers for regular, friendly phone calls. 

    It’s a lifeline of connection, helping to reduce isolation and bring a little light into everyday life. 

  • Our HOSPITAL BEFRIENDING service within Cheltenham’s Woodmancote Ward and The Valoffers one-to-one support to stroke survivors during their stay, provided by trained Stroke Survivor Befrienders. 

    It’s a comforting presence at a challenging time, helping people feel heard, supported and less alone on their recovery journey. 

  • ReConnect’s STROKE MENTORING Service pairs individuals returning home from hospital with volunteers who have also had a stroke and who are skilled in supporting people at this initial stage of recovery. 

    This one-to-one support helps guide the transition with empathy, practical advice and encouragement, turning lived experience into hope for the road ahead. 

  • Our STROKE SUPPORT GROUPS Provide a welcoming space where stroke survivors and their families can connect, share experiences and support one another. 

    From informative and creative sessions to social chats, each group is built on empathy, friendship and the power of belonging. 

    Carers are welcome at all our groups.

  • Our ART & CREATIVITY GROUPS offer a pressure-free space where people can express themselves through painting, drawing, collage and more. 

    It’s not about being an artist, it’s about social connection and rediscovering confidence through creativity. 

    Carers are welcome at all our groups.

  • Our APHASIA CHOIRS are joyful, inclusive sessions led by trained music therapists, bringing people together through music to build connection and confidence.


    Through rhythm, melody, and shared song, participants find new ways to communicate, express emotion, and belong. 

    Carers are welcome at all our groups.

  • Our NATURE GROUP offers an uplifting way to connect with the outdoors and each other, from woodland walks to seasonal gardening. 

    Designed for stroke survivors and people with aphasia, these sessions promote wellbeing, gentle movement, and meaningful conversation in nature’s rhythm. 

    Carers are welcome at all our groups.

How We Do It

At ReConnect, we believe that real support starts within the community, where everyone matters and no one is left behind. 

We’re here to open up new opportunities for social connection, purpose, and confidence and to put well-being at the centre of everything we do. 

Our community-based approach brings people together: stroke survivors, people with aphasia, volunteers, and families, to share experiences, learn from one another, and grow stronger together. It’s not just about services; it’s about belonging.

  • Lady in black cardigan smiling at a man in brown jumper. Both sitting at round table with hot drinks in front of window

    BEFRIENDING and MENTORING

    We offer 1:1 visits and phone calls from our volunteer befrienders across Gloucestershire and on-line. This support can happen at home, in cafes, care homes,  hospital stroke units, or in a ReConnect group setting. 

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  • 3 women and 4 men standing outside on steps smiling at camera

    GROUPS

    Our groups are lifelines of connection, recovery and belonging. Whether it’s sharing stories in a stroke support group, expressing yourself through art, singing in an aphasia choir or sitting in nature. Every group is a safe, welcoming space where stroke survivors, people with aphasia and their families can find joy in shared experience.

    Carers are welcome at all our groups.

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  • 2 women with short grey hair smiling at camera in a kitchen making hot drinks,. 1 is filling a cup from kettle

    VOLUNTEERING

    We couldn’t do what we do without of our wonderful team of ReConnect volunteers who help us with all aspects of befriending, mentoring and within our groups.

    Volunteers have usually been affected by a stroke or long-term health condition, either themselves or through supporting a friend or family member or in a prior line of work. They share their invaluable experienceswith insight and authenticity.

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