Publish date: 20 October 2026
The review by the Wessex Integrated Stroke Delivery Network recognised the high-quality care provided by Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust’s (PHU) Community Stroke Rehabilitation Team. It highlighted the service’s strong clinical leadership, dedicated multidisciplinary workforce and focus on achieving positive outcomes for patients.
The team provides Early Supported Discharge and specialist community rehabilitation services, helping patients return home sooner and continue their recovery in familiar surroundings. This support can also reduce people’s reliance on longer-term social care packages.
The service was recognised for its contribution to the wider stroke pathway and its commitment to sharing learning with other teams across the region. Progress towards introducing six-month post-stroke reviews was also welcomed.
The team is continuing to develop its rehabilitation offer, including the availability of group therapies and exploring virtual rehabilitation models to support patients in different ways.
Kroot Kidson-Petlem, Community Stroke Rehabilitation Team Operational Lead at PHU, said: “Every day, our team works closely with patients and families to support recovery after stroke and help people achieve the best outcomes possible.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see that commitment recognised through this review. The report highlights the value of community rehabilitation in helping people rebuild their independence, and we’re excited to continue developing the service to meet the needs of patients now and in the future.”
An action plan is now in place to build on the team’s achievements, support further improvements in patient outcomes, strengthen operational performance and help the service meet future demand across Portsmouth and the wider health and care system.