To mark 29 October, we are highlighting our commitment to brain health through the ‘Brain-Safe Space’ certification and the GUIAR programme, promoted by the Gmp Foundation and the Freno al Ictus Foundation.
A stroke can suddenly change a person’s life and that of their family. Knowing how to recognise the signs and seek help quickly is essential. Afterwards, having guidance to cope with a new reality can also make all the difference.
On World Stroke Day, which is observed every 29 October, we at Gmp want to raise awareness of both these needs. Our commitment takes the form of ensuring our buildings are equipped to facilitate an early response and the support we offer, through the Gmp Foundation, to people with acquired brain injury and their families.
Brain-Protected Areas: training on how to respond
Workplaces are spaces where we spend a significant part of our day. That is why training those who work there to recognise the signs of a possible stroke and alert the emergency services has a value that extends beyond the building itself.
The ‘Brain-Safe Space’ certification, created by the Freno al Ictus Foundation, focuses on this preparation: ensuring that staff are trained to recognise the warning signs and know how to respond if a stroke occurs on their premises.
At Gmp, we have implemented this certification in our buildings: ARQBÓREA, Castellana 77, Génova 27, Luchana 23, Titán 8, Orense 34, oxxeo, and Castellana 81. The training enables teams to play a vital role as the first line of response in the event of a potential emergency.
As we explained in our post on the importance of acting promptly, recognising the symptoms is an essential step in being able to help.
Recognising the warning signs and calling 112
Warning signs include sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech, a lopsided smile, and a sudden loss of strength in an arm or leg.
As SUMMA 112 in the Community of Madrid points out, if even one of these signs is present, you must call 112 immediately, without waiting for the symptoms to disappear or trying to get to hospital on your own. The call enables the emergency services to assess the situation and activate the appropriate response.
The GUIAR Programme: support for those affected and their families
Following a stroke, questions arise that go beyond healthcare: what support is available, how to apply for it, and which resources to turn to.
To provide support throughout this process, the Gmp Foundation and the Freno al Ictus Foundation have launched the GUIAR Programme for Acquired Brain Injury, a personalised advisory programme aimed at those affected and their families throughout the country.
In April 2026, both foundations renewed their partnership to ensure the continuity of this initiative. The programme provides guidance on administrative procedures such as applying for care allowance, having a degree of disability recognised, or dealing with incapacity-related procedures. Its aim is to reduce uncertainty and facilitate access to support resources, particularly in the early stages following a stroke or other cause of brain damage.
You can find out more about the programme on the Fundación Gmp website or contact Fundación Freno al Ictus to request information and guidance.
An ongoing commitment to people
Preparar nuestros espacios para saber actuar y apoyar iniciativas de acompañamiento son dos formas de trasladar a la práctica nuestro compromiso con la salud y el bienestar.
Este Día Mundial del Ictus queremos recordar la importancia de ambas: reconocer las señales para pedir ayuda a tiempo y facilitar que las personas afectadas y sus familias encuentren orientación cuando la necesitan.
