As we stepped into 2026, this winter was a time for fresh starts, new goals, and reconnecting with our communities. This season, we were focusing on bringing people together after the holidays and supporting one another. Whether you were joining one of our sessions, volunteering, or simply staying informed, we are grateful to have you as part of the Reconnect Gloucestershire network.

Group Updates

Art Groups

Glass and Tile Painting at Stroud Art Group

Our **Stroud Brewery Art Group** participants **enjoyed** a creative and **inspiring sessions** this winter, **exploring glass** and **tile painting**, an **activity** that **supports hand-eye coordination**.

Meanwhile, members of our Online Art Group discovered the magical effects of shapes and colours using black Sharpie pens and coloured crayons. They created vibrant designs, experimenting with bold outlines and colour blending.

These activities provided a wonderful opportunity to express creativity, relax, and enjoy time together in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Nature Group

Our Nature Group is already looking ahead to the brighter months. Members have enjoyed coming together, sharing seeds and bulbs, and preparing for the new season as a community. Everyone also enjoyed doing Botanical collage, by using a mix of dried and fresh plants to create a picture on paper.

Aphasia Choirs

Singing with the Aphasia Choir helps improve communication, boosts confidence, and builds friendships. We have spaces available at Rodborough and Churchdown Aphasia Choirs.

Our participants continued to sing, connect, and have fun! One recent attendee said, "I found the group very relaxed, expressive, and fun. It was enjoyable to sing along with the group. I look forward to meeting up with them again."

To join, please complete a referral form, email us, or give us a call.

More information can be found here.

Stroke Support Groups

The Dundry and Coaley Stroke Support Groups saved their Christmas meals for January, allowing everyone to enjoy good company and lovely food without the usual festive rush. It was a relaxed and enjoyable way to reconnect and start the new year together.

The Dundry group was visited by Team Ellia, who provided a virtual reality experience designed to support wellbeing and connection for individuals and groups. Everyone enjoyed going under the sea and exploring the virtual world of turtles, dolphins, and other sea life.

**“Safe movement is medicine.”**

The **Cirencester Stroke Support Group** welcomed guest speakers **Adam and Alessandra** from ***Evoke Neurological Rehabilitation*** for an **informative** and **inspiring** session.

They shared insights into how the brain and nervous system adapt after a stroke, along with practical strategies for managing pain and fatigue and improving walking. Members learned helpful walking cues, including finding rhythm through movement and using a metronome. The importance of motivation, hobbies, and physical activity in recovery was also highlighted.

The group also welcomed Chris Humphrey, Life Navigator from Grey Matters Consultancy. Chris explained the difference between Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance, as well as other support available for stroke survivors. Participants found the session extremely useful and valued the opportunity for one-to-one conversations following the talk.

Exploring New Opportunities in the Forest of Dean

Coryn and Anna were on a mission to explore the Forest of Dean in search of a potential new venue for a Forest of Dean Stroke Support Group.

**They met** with a range of **local organisations**, and **everyone** they **spoke** to was incredibly welcoming and **helpful.** They even **met** the **alpacas** at **Orchard Trust** in Lydbrook and had a go at sawing, as well as **trying out** other **carpentry tools** at the **Maker Hub**. It was a fun, **hands-on experience** and a very positive step towards **expanding support** for **stroke survivors** in the **Forest of Dean community.**

Volunteer Recognition

We are delighted to recognise **Martin Gallagher**, who has **received** a ***Certificate of Recognition*** from the **Stroke Association** Group Network Recognition Award.

**Martin’s dedication**, **kindness**, and **continued support** make a **real difference** to our **groups** and the **people** we support. We are incredibly **grateful** for everything he does.

Volunteering Opportunities

If you would like to become a volunteer, we currently have vacancies for:

· Telephone befriending - just 15 minutes per week;

· Home befriending - 40 minutes per week or even fortnightly.

You can choose times that suit you, and we will support and guide you every step of the way. As a thank-you for your dedication, after a year of volunteering, you can be nominated for a FREE two-night stay for two in a UK hotel. We love to show our appreciation for all the wonderful work our volunteers do!

Looking Ahead

As we move forward into the Spring season, we remain committed to supporting stroke survivors, families, and carers across Gloucestershire. Thank you to everyone who attends our groups, volunteers their time, shares their experiences, and helps make our sessions such welcoming and supportive spaces. We look forward to another season of connection, encouragement, and positive steps forward together.