By KLTV Newsdesk –

Life-changing rehabilitation programme offers hope to stroke survivors of working age

Residents in Kirklees living with hidden communication difficulties are being invited to join a new support group designed to transform lives.

The initiative, delivered by the charity Aphasia Support, will provide a specialist rehabilitation programme for people of working age living with aphasia, an invisible disability caused by damage to the brain.

Aphasia affects a person’s ability to speak, read, write and communicate with the world around them.

It has a profound impact on everyday life, relationships and independence, and is most commonly the result of a devastating stroke.

Growing Need for Specialist Support

The demand for targeted services is increasing.

The NHS has reported a 55% rise in stroke among people aged 50–59, with one in four stroke survivors now of working age.

Around a third of people who experience a stroke will develop some form of aphasia.

For many, this means the sudden loss of vital communication skills at a time when they are still working, supporting families and contributing to their communities, making specialist support more important than ever.

The new Kirklees group has been funded by Healthy Working Life, a joint programme of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board.

Starting in March, weekly sessions will be held at Gledholt Methodist Church and Batley Community Centre.

The sessions are designed to be accessible and supportive, with activities tailored to individual needs to help participants rebuild confidence and reconnect with their community.

‘Hope, Friendship and Practical Support’

James Major, CEO of Aphasia Support, said: “Over 800 people are estimated to be living with aphasia in the Kirklees area.

“Many are of working age and facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

“This group has been created to give people hope, friendship, and practical support so they can live life to the fullest and achieve their personal goals.”

The free programme is open to Kirklees residents aged 18–64 who are living with aphasia and are not currently in employment.

Paul, who attends a nearby group, described the impact it has had on his recovery: “By yourself, first of all you are lost, you are not who you were, everything takes such a long time.

“The group has lifted up all parts of my life and helped me move forward after my stroke. Everyone made a massive difference.

“It’s helped me feel 100% better – more independent and confident.”

How to Apply

Referrals are now open and will close at 5 pm on Monday 9 March 2026.

Anyone who meets the criteria, or knows someone who would benefit, is encouraged to contact Aphasia Support on 0300 102 3500 or email info@aphasiasupport.org for further information.