Volunteer Stroke Service (VSS) groups for patients with communication difficulties after stroke: a qualitative analysis of the value of groups to their users.
OBJECTIVE
To identify the functions that Volunteer Stroke Service (VSS) groups fulfil for their members.


METHODS
Qualitative focus group study.


METHODS
Mixed urban and rural community settings in Scotland.


METHODS
Seven focus groups comprising a total of 24 men and 14 women, with dysarthria or aphasia following stroke, who were members of VSS groups funded by Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland.


RESULTS
We identified eight main themes. VSS groups (1) include members in an interpersonal network, (2) provide members with the opportunity to develop interpersonal relations, (3) provide members with support, (4) provide opportunities for personal growth and development, (5) supply members with a purpose, structure and routine, (6) help members establish and confirm their identify, beliefs and values, (7) help members accomplish individual and shared goals, and (8) provide members with the opportunity to influence others and be influenced.


CONCLUSIONS
VSS groups appear to provide a range of functions that meet members' personal, interpersonal and psychological needs.
Legg
Lynn
L
Academic Section of Geriatric Medicine, Glasgow Royal Infirmary University NHS Trust, Glasgow, and Medicine for the Elderly, Monklands Hospital, Airdrie, Scotland. step@clinmed.gla.ac.uk
Stott
David
D
Ellis
Graham
G
Sellars
Cameron
C
D001037:Aphasia / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology*; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D004401:Dysarthria / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D012606:Scotland; D012944:Social Support; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications; D014838:Volunteers