A Gorslas stroke survivor has spoken of the impact of stroke support services in Carmarthenshire.

Robert Owens, 65, suffered a stroke in 2018 and has shared how the community support services have helped him.

He said: "Meeting up with other stroke survivors and talking about what we have all been through helps me so much.

"Being able to take part in projects, whether it's workshop building or gardening, would have really helped me in my recovery and built a new me.

"I wish this opportunity was available when I had my stroke."

The Carmarthenshire Community Connect stroke support service, launched by the Stroke Association in 2024, aims to help stroke survivors, their families, and carers regain their skills and confidence.

The service works in partnership with communities of stroke survivors in specific areas and is led by them and is supported by Carmarthenshire County Council.

Wayne Rees, 54, from Llanelli, who had a stroke in July 2022, said: "When Carla from the Stroke Association called me, it was lovely to speak to someone that understood me.

"I talked about woodturning as my father had passed away and left me a lathe.

"That chat pushed me into trying to do it again and Carla introduced me to some great places to do it."

Mr Rees joined a woodworking class, the men's shed group, and a peer support group in Llanelli.

Lynn Preece, Stroke Association service delivery lead, said: "It is a strong start to the project, we can see how connecting stroke survivors and their carers to opportunities can help in re-engaging with the community, combat isolation, and rebuild lives."

Carmarthenshire County Council's cabinet member for health and social services, Councillor Jane Tremlett, said: "Our work with the Stroke Association has achieved positive outcomes through the development of sustainable networks and peer support."