This June, from 15 to 21 June 2026, marks Loneliness Awareness Week, a global campaign hosted by our friends at the leading loneliness charity Marmalade Trust.

It’s a campaign that goes right to the heart of everything we do here at Bristol After Stroke.

While loneliness is something that we all experience at different points in our lives, for those who have had a stroke it can be far more common and debilitating.

In fact, 2022 research showed that – nationally – approximately 73% of stroke survivors spend less or no time socializing with family and friends due to the life-altering effects of stroke. 

That’s hardly surprising, as a stroke can severely affect one’s mobility as well as lead to communication difficulties.

The resulting psychological and emotional impacts can be severe - including anxiety, a loss of confidence and feelings of social isolation.

Which is where, in OUR area, Bristol After Stroke is here to help!

Our social groups, drop-in cafes, communication groups and walking sports activities offer a warm welcome for you to meet and mix with others you are on the same journey as you.

Sharing your experiences and concerns in an understanding and supportive environment can help you feel less isolated… and part of a community that totally knows what you are going though.

Our gatherings are open to carers too… and we know how helpful this can be for family members whose own social life may well have been affected by their partner’s stroke.

In total, Bristol After Stroke runs 18 different groups across Bristol and South Gloucestershire… one (or even more!) of them might just be perfect for you. Some are weekly, others fortnightly or monthly.

You’ll find more about our groups by clicking here information here: 

And about Loneliness Awareness Week here: website

And if you’d like to try out one of your groups, please get in touch! Call 0117 964 7657 / [email protected]