Supporting Young Stroke Survivors: A Guide for Health Professionals

The Young Stroke Service is a dedicated initiative designed to support young adults recovering from stroke. Tailored for individuals aged 18–45, the service offers specialised assessment, referral, and treatment options, while complementing—not replacing—existing community services.

What the Service Offers

Health professionals can refer young stroke survivors to the Young Stroke Service for:

  • Clinical assessment and intake
  • Personalised treatment recommendations
  • Guidance on navigating stroke recovery
  • Resources and presentations for professional teams

The service is built around a collaborative approach, ensuring that survivors are informed and involved throughout the referral and intake process.

Referral Process

Referrals must come from a registered health professional, such as:

  • General Practitioners (GPs)
  • Hospital-based clinicians (e.g. neurologists, nurses)
  • Community-based professionals (e.g. physiotherapists, psychologists)

Steps to refer:

  1. Download the referral form from the website or request it via email: Health.Young.StrokeService@SA.gov.au
  2. Complete and submit the form, ensuring the survivor is aware of the referral.
  3. The Young Stroke Service team will confirm the referral with the referrer.
  4. A first call with the survivor introduces the service and sets up the intake appointment.
  5. During the intake appointment, a clinical therapist discusses the survivor’s stroke experience and treatment history.
  6. The team provides tailored recommendations, which are shared with the referrer.

If you’re unable to download the form, you can contact the team directly at 0427 259 191 or email: Health.Young.StrokeService@SA.gov.au

Additional Support for Health Professionals

Health professionals can also request:

  • A3 and A4 posters
  • Postcards
  • Internal presentations for their teams

These resources are provided free of charge and can be requested via an online form. The Young Stroke Service team will follow up to confirm details.

Stay Connected

To keep up with the latest updates, health professionals are encouraged to sign up for the Young Stroke Service newsletter. 

Links & resources

15 October 2025