Contracts for Innovation Cymru - Ending Abandonment After Stroke

What the buyer says

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in Wales and affects around 7,000 people each year. While survival rates continue to improve, many people experience a significant reduction in support once they leave hospital at a stage when rehabilitation remains critical to recovery and long-term independence. Around 45% of stroke survivors report feeling abandoned following discharge because they do not receive the support they need to recover well. The impact extends far beyond the individual. Variations in access to rehabilitation, follow-up support and community services can lead to poorer outcomes, increased carer burden, avoidable demand on health and care services, and significant societal and economic costs. Stroke currently costs NHS Wales approximately £220 million per year and the wider Welsh economy approximately £1.63 billion annually. Without intervention, these costs are expected to increase significantly. The challenge has been developed following extensive investigation across Wales involving clinicians, health boards, national leaders, stroke survivors, carers and the Stroke Association. This work has helped define the challenge, identify unmet needs, understand existing service variation and explore the current market landscape. The conclusion is clear: Wales requires innovative, scalable approaches that can strengthen recovery, improve experience, reduce feelings of abandonment and support more equitable outcomes beyond hospital discharge. The challenge aligns with the Welsh Government Quality Statement for Stroke, which places renewed emphasis on rehabilitation, recovery, person-centred care and ensuring that stroke survivors do not feel abandoned during their recovery journey. The Challenge We are seeking innovative solutions that can improve…