A CARER from Newnham is backing a campaign calling for the Government to implement a new strategy on victims of strokes, after the Stroke Association revealed that more than half of carers of people living with the condition are potentially going without support and benefits.

The charity’s latest survey of 1,100 stroke survivors, carers and professionals has found that 61 per cent of stroke carers did not receive a carer’s assessment – which provides access to practical, emotional and financial help.

Following these findings, the Stroke Association has launched ‘A New Era for Stroke’, a campaign calling on the Government to commit to a new stroke strategy.

One carer backing this campaign is 47-year-old Becky Brookes.

Her husband Steve, also 47, unexpectedly had a stroke in May 2015 – the father-of-two suddenly falling at work having a seizure.

It was first thought that Steve was having an allergic reaction, but after a CT scan it was discovered that he had a huge bleed on his brain.

Mrs Brookes, a plant quality manager, said: “I could never have imagined that Steve, who was fit and healthy, would have a stroke.

“You never think something like this would happen, and when it does, the impact is so huge you find yourself lost.

“I have some days where I can’t help but feel abandoned. I have had moments when I have had to walk away and cry as I can’t let my family see me not coping. All the help I have received has either been through charities or via the private sector – nothing from the NHS or government.”

Esme Mutter, regional head of operations at the charity, said: “We can help lighten the load if the right care and support is in place to help stroke survivors make their best possible recovery.”

To sign the petition visit stroke.org.uk/petition