Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation centre - ‘SPARC’

SPARC Contact Number

Reception 0114 3078122

Practical Information

Where are we?

Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation Centre, Norfolk Park Road, Sheffield S2 3QE

Public transport

The nearest tram stop is Park Grange Croft on the blue or purple route. It is approximately 10 mins walk.

Visiting

Visiting times are 8am – 8pm.

There is a reception until 5pm and they will direct any visitors. If you are arriving in the evening there is a side door with a buzzer where someone will let you in.

Parking

There is some parking at SPARC for visitors but this is limited and becomes full at busy times. (no charges)

Food and drink

Many patients at SPARC are on special diets and drinks. There will be information about this up in your room. Family can bring in food. We ask that they check with staff first if you are on a special diet. At the moment we do not have anywhere that families can heat food.

Interpretation

If you or your family members need some help speaking or understanding English we can arrange for an interpreter. Please ask a member of staff.

Hairdresser

A hairdresser visits most weeks. Ask staff to put your name on her list if you would like to be seen.

Feedback or questions about your care

If you have any questions or are unhappy with any aspect of your care please talk to the team.

There is also a patient liaison service if you are unable to sort out the issues directly with our team. 

Smoking

Sheffield teaching Hospitals have a no smoking policy and we ask that visitors respect this whilst on the grounds or in the building.

What to Expect

The Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation centre opened as a specialist unit for Stroke patients in Spring 2017. 

Most patients have their own room with an en-suite bathroom. SPARC has an integrated ward culture, and you will have access to a ‘Welcome to SPARC’ information pack.There are two wards at Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation centre. Both are for Stroke patients. Norfolk ward is downstairs and Shrewsbury ward is upstairs.

Once you are settled the team will meet you. We will work together with you to identify your goals and rehabilitation programme. We aim to ensure your family and friends are involved as much as you would like in your rehabilitation journey.

There are a variety of facilities and activities at SPARC to support your rehabilitation, including group activities.

Meals are usually taken in the dining rooms, but you can choose to have them in your room if you prefer.
Therapy, activities and groups occur at various points during the day.

The garden is open to you and your visitors. There are benches for you to sit at. Dogs are welcome in the grounds. Please speak to staff if you wish to discuss anything further.

We have a range of volunteers and charities that visit the unit.

Meet the team

Stroke Consultants & Hospital Doctors The doctors are responsible for investigating the cause of your stroke. They will usually arrange for certain tests. They will take a full medical history from you.

Stroke Nurse Practitioners The Stroke nurses will usually be the first people you meet from the team. They will assess you as soon as you are arrive and provide information and support.

Stroke Nurses and Support Workers on the ward The nursing staff will monitor you daily. They are there to make sure you are safe and cared for and that you have the support and advice you need.

Pharmacist The pharmacy team will ensure that any medicines prescribed for you are safe. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication you can ask to talk to a member of the pharmacy team.

Physiotherapist (PT) Physiotherapy following a stroke begins as soon as possible. It may involve techniques and exercise to improve the control and movement of the body. The aim of treatment is to enable you to become as independent as possible in everyday life. Therapy will be directed towards your own personal goals.

Occupational Therapist (OT) The Occupational therapist will see how the stroke has affected your ability to carry out and organise everyday activities. They may also look at your thinking skills such as concentration and memory. Therapy will be directed towards your own personal goals.

Speech & Language Therapist (SLT) A stroke can lead to problems affecting your speaking, understanding, reading & writing. The ability to swallow food and drink may also be affected. You will work with the Speech and Language therapist on any communication and swallowing changes.

Dietitians You may need to see a dietitian. They can assess your nutritional needs and advise how these should be met.

Orthoptist Visual problems are common after a stroke and this can affect the rest of your rehabilitation. Orthoptists are eye-care professionals who assess how a stroke has affected your vision.

Psychologist Many people see a psychologist after having a stroke, which can feel scary at first. Reasons for this might be anxious thoughts and worries, low mood, Intense emotions, changes in cognitive ability or adjusting to life after stroke. The psychologist is there to support you and your loved ones with these changes.