Aberdeen welcomes UK Stroke Forum to P&J Live for landmark 20th anniversary gathering

Flagship Stroke Association conference to bring 2,000 delegates for three days of learning, networking and community impact, from 25 to 27 November 2025.

P&J Live will host the UK Stroke Forum 2025, the Stroke Association’s flagship annual conference, from 25 to 27 November 2025, welcoming 2,000 delegates for three days of education, collaboration and skills development.

The 20th anniversary edition will take place across the whole of the venue’s conference and exhibition spaces.  P&J Live was chosen for its sustainability credentials and the city’s joined-up approach.  Complimentary hydrogen and electric powered shuttle services linking key hotels and the venue were also considered a significant bonus during the bid process. 

“Bringing the UK Stroke Forum to Aberdeen for our 20th anniversary is an exciting step for our community,” said Jon Roe, Events Lead, UK Stroke Forum. “Alongside an outstanding local and regional stroke community, we were impressed by the city’s sustainability focus, accessibility and collaborative spirit. The public engagement and youth pathways initiatives mean this year’s Forum will make a difference beyond the conference, supporting people affected by stroke across the region.” 

The bid was secured with the support of a local team of ambassadors in Aberdeen, working closely with P&J Live and the Aberdeen Convention Bureau to demonstrate why the region was the right choice for this milestone year. As part of the successful proposal, local partners also developed a public engagement programme to signpost local support services for stroke survivors and carers, ensuring the conference leaves a meaningful community legacy.

In partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), one session will introduce local young people to career pathways in stroke care and research, connecting the next generation with clinicians, therapists, researchers and charities who shape the field.

Stroke Rehabilitation Lead at the National Stroke Improvement Programme, Thérèse Lebedis OBE, said: “Bringing this prestigious conference to the Northeast of Scotland has been a truly collaborative effort, and we are proud to be the host city for such an important event. Hosting the forum in Aberdeen represents a significant opportunity to highlight the vital work being undertaken across NHS Grampian and our academic partners in advancing stroke care, rehabilitation and research.  The event will shine a spotlight on the innovation, expertise and commitment of local teams, whose work continues to shape and influence stroke services nationally.  From cutting edge clinical research to community-based rehabilitation and prevention initiatives, the conference provides a platform to share best practice and acknowledge the achievements of those dedicated to improving outcomes for people affected by stroke.”

Laura Wilson, Head of Convention Bureau, Aberdeen Convention Bureau, added: “As the home of the MRI scanner and, the world’s first Field Cycling Imager, plus NHS Grampian’s acute stroke unit, Aberdeen is a destination with extensive knowledge and expertise within stroke research and practice. Aligning this with a compact, connected, and collaborative destination, which has worked in partnership with NHS Grampian, P&J Live and UK Stroke Forum event organisers, we’ve tailored an experience that delivers for delegates, whilst confirming knowledge legacy within the North-east.” 

Steve Daun, head of sales – Associations, Legends Global concludes: “Hosting the UK Stroke Forum across our campus is a privilege in this landmark year. From high-impact plenaries to hands-on workshops and exhibitions, our flexible spaces make it simple to learn, network and innovate under one roof. With on-site hotels and low-carbon transport options for delegates, we’re ready to deliver an exceptional, sustainable experience in partnership with the city.”

The UK Stroke Forum joins a growing pipeline of knowledge-led events choosing Aberdeen across health and life sciences, agrifood and civic debate, further evidence of the city’s diversified strengths and the region’s economic strategy in action. 

UK Stroke Forum / P&J Live Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-glWavdf8g&list=PLvPsGTxt3qJtitM_Iq_cufV3cLp1YR8tn&index=5