Jacqui Cuthbert, south west regional head of ­operations, the Stroke Association, writes:

More than 1.2 million people are currently living with the devastating effects of stroke in the UK. It happens in an instant, yet this devastating condition can affect people physically and emotionally for the rest of their lives.

The long-term effects can often take a huge toll on ­partners, carers and families too.

We are calling on stroke ­survivors, their carers and stroke professionals across the south west to take part in a national survey to tell us about their experiences of stroke.

As resources for healthcare in the south west become ­increasingly stretched, we want stroke treatment, therapy and care to remain a priority.

If anyone has had a stroke, or cares for someone who has had a stroke, we would like to hear your views. The more voices that are heard, the more we can do to help change the world for stroke survivors.

The closing date for our ­survey is March 31, 2016. It can be completed online at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Stroke16, or you can contact the Stroke Association on 020 7566 1535 to obtain a paper copy.