Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland Responds to ‘Stroke Pose’ Comments 18 March 2026 Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland responds to comments made by Scottish Labour leader, Anas Sarwar, regarding ‘stroke pose’. “For every person in Scotland whose life has been turned upside down by stroke, today’s comment from Anas Sarwar was deeply disappointing. Stroke is not a punchline or a “pose”. It is a life-threatening medical emergency, that has lasting physical, emotional and social impact, on individuals and the people who care about them. “More than 11,000 people in Scotland have a stroke each year. Every day 31 people will experience a stroke, and it remains one of the leading causes of disability in Scotland. Families across the country sit beside hospital beds, support long, difficult rehabilitation journeys, and watch loved ones adapt to the reality of recovery. To diminish that experience, especially from someone who has just called for major healthcare reform, which for stroke is badly needed, shows a worrying lack of understanding of what stroke truly means. “People affected by stroke deserve better. Their experiences should be recognised with sensitivity, respect and accuracy. “The words we use about health conditions shape how society understands and respects the people living with them. We strongly recommend that anyone in public office take the time to understand the seriousness of major health conditions before speaking about them. “Our ask goes beyond an apology. We would welcome the opportunity to provide Mr Sarwar and his team with an in person briefing, access to our stroke information resources, and training to ensure comments like today’s are never repeated.” If you’re living with the effects of a chest, heart or stroke condition or Long Covid and are looking for advice and information, please contact Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0899. You can also text ADVICE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.