The Stroke Association proudly announces that Professor Sir Stephen Powis, former National Medical Director for NHS England, has become its first Clinical Ambassador. In this groundbreaking voluntary role, Sir Stephen will advocate for thousands of people affected by stroke every year in the UK.
Stroke is the UK’s fourth biggest killer and the leading cause of complex adult disability. Every day, 240 people in the UK experience a stroke, yet many do not receive timely treatment or rehabilitation. Sir Stephen’s appointment aims to change that.
Sir Stephen has long supported the Stroke Association’s mission. After stepping down from his NHS role in July, he contacted the charity to continue improving access to thrombectomy—a life-saving procedure that removes the blood clot causing a stroke.
Over the past two years, he visited all 26 thrombectomy centres in England, encouraging health leaders to make this treatment available to every eligible patient. Thrombectomy can mean the difference between walking out of hospital or leaving in a wheelchair.
Sir Stephen will volunteer one to two days per month for three years, focusing on:
- Increasing thrombectomy rates from 4.4% to 10% by 2028
- Supporting NHS efforts to make thrombectomy available 24/7 nationwide
- Advocating for robust rehabilitation services for stroke survivors
His first engagement as ambassador will be at the UK Stroke Forum in Aberdeen, where he will meet sector leaders and practitioners.
“I will never forget the impact of visiting all of England’s thrombectomy centres and seeing first-hand the incredible work the teams are doing to save stroke survivors.”
“It’s a simple but incredibly effective procedure which transforms lives, especially when coupled with effective rehabilitation support.”
“That’s why this isn’t something which should only be available to stroke survivors who live in particular parts of the country – it's unfair, unjust and must stop. That’s why I am willingly and proactively giving my time to the Stroke Association so I can help to ensure that every eligible patient has a thrombectomy and, therefore, the opportunity to make a good recovery. I am proud to be an ambassador for the charity and its admirable work to help and support everyone in the UK who is affected by stroke.”
Sir Stephen will collaborate with Juliet Bouverie OBE, CEO of the Stroke Association, and Professor Deb Lowe, Medical Director.
Juliet Bouverie OBE said:
“Stroke is the UK’s fourth biggest killer and the leading cause of complex adult disability – but stroke patients all too often don’t get the treatment and ongoing support they need to recover and live physically and mentally well.
“So, we warmly welcome Steve Powis as he joins the Stroke Association in this unique voluntary capacity to help ensure that stroke patients across the UK get timely, effective treatment and rehabilitation when and where they need it.”
Professor Deb Lowe added:
“Thrombectomy is a true gamechanger – it can make the difference between a stroke survivor walking out of hospital or leaving in a wheelchair. Yet far too many stroke patients miss out on it because of the postcode lottery which monopolises access to this treatment.
“With Steve’s expertise, unwavering commitment and passion to support stroke survivors, I am confident that, together, we can bring about long overdue change for people affected by stroke.”
Image credit: The Stroke Association
