- The Young Stroke Service has launched a new digital platform to empower young stroke survivors.
- The platform development is a key milestone for the Young Stroke Service. It will improve outcomes for young stroke survivors, whose needs are often unmet in recovery.
Digitally enabled healthcare for young people
The Young Stroke Service (YSS), a project led by The Florey, has launched a new digital platform for young stroke survivors and their health professionals.
The digital platform has been developed to improve access to services, get tailored care, and help navigate the many challenges that come after a stroke.
Young stroke survivors can use the platform to:
- Access YSS services,
- Get involved with young stroke research, and;
- Take the Unmet Needs Survey to better understand their recovery.
The service is currently funded by an MRFF Rapid Translational Grant until December 2026, and the development of the digital platform is a key milestone of the grant.
“Young people with stroke face distinct challenges as they return to work, study, parenting, and independence. Too often, their needs are overlooked,” Professor Vincent Thijs, co-lead Investigator for the Young Stroke Service said.
This platform helps close those gaps by giving survivors a way to help us understand their many unmet needs. I am extremely proud our team has achieved this milestone.”
Filling in the gaps for survivor’s unmet needs
Despite having to live with the impact of stroke for longer, most stroke services do not always cater to young stroke survivors, and a majority of them report ‘unmet needs’ during their recovery.
Since its launch in 2023, the YSS has supported over 400 young Australians (aged 18-55), in Victoria and South Australia to target uncommon gaps in care.
These have included:
- supporting people back to work and driving,
- helping wit memory and cognitive issues, and;
- learning more about their stroke.
Professor Thijs hopes this digitally enabled tool will help empower young stroke survivors with their own recovery.
“Young stroke is a rapidly increasing global health concern, and without targeted support, many younger survivors will fall through the cracks.
By giving young people access to trusted information and practical tools, we’re helping them regain control and rebuild their futures.”
By 2050, there will be an estimated 142,000 young Australians living with stroke.
Shaped by stroke experience and collaboration
Developed in collaboration with various partner organisations, the YSS digital platform has been designed and built by leading stroke experts, and shaped by people with lived experience of stroke.
This collaborative approach ensures the platform reflects the real needs, challenges and priorities of younger stroke survivors, as well as their families and support networks.
Currently, the Young Stroke Service is operating as a pilot program, translating years of research into practical support. Efforts are underway to secure the long-term sustainability of the YSS and to extend support to more young stroke survviors across Australia.
