Golf is a superb way to help stroke victims recover

The Stroke Association is increasingly finding that golf is an excellent way for survivors to boost their recovery.

Playing golf provides a number of key social, mental and physical benefits that are essential to the recovery for stroke victims.

The organisation teamed up with England Golf in May and June to provide coaching courses for stroke survivors in Crewe.

At the weekly sessions, held at Malkins Bank Golf Course in Sandbach, nine stroke survivors had access to several hours of coaching sessions on the driving range for the duration of the two months.

Hilary Belshaw, information, advice and support coordinator at the Stroke Association, said: “More people than ever before are surviving a stroke. But many stroke survivors tell us that after all the effort to save their lives they then feel isolated when they return home.

“The golf course provides an opportunity for stroke survivors to meet others who are also experiencing a life after stroke, benefit from exercise, build their confidence and enjoy learning new skills. We’re thrilled the first course has been so popular.”

The Get into golf programme was specifically tailored to stroke survivors and participants was asked to contribute just £10 to the course. All equipment was provided.

Sean Hammill, county officer for the Cheshire Golf Development Group, which has been working with the Stroke Association to deliver the golf coaching session, said: “Golf offers a great rehabilitation pathway to stroke survivors as it gives them the chance to build up their physical activity gradually, develop new skills and increase their overall confidence in a social environment which will encourage those taking part to return and continue.

“Malkins Banks offers all the right facilities for newcomers to the sport and the club was keen to support this initiative. The sessions were delivered by PGA professional Alex Heller, from the Ian Woosnam Academy.

“The response has been fantastic and we look forward to seeing those taking part continuing to make progress in their recovery and enjoying the long-term health benefits golf can bring.”