Local people with long term health conditions are being invited to join the next sessions of the Living Well programme, which is a life-enhancement course run by NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald.
The programme covers issues such as dealing with pain and fatigue, managing symptoms, advice on nutrition and exercise, and planning for the future to get the most out of life. Each course consists of six weekly sessions of 2 ½ hours per session and they are led by fully trained volunteer tutors who are themselves living with long term conditions.
Manjinder Dhaliwal, who coordinates the programme, says,
“The Living Well Programme is suitable for people with conditions such as ME, fibromyalgia, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and HIV.
“Since each person already has a wealth of knowledge about living with and managing their own condition they can share their experiences and support fellow members of their group”.
Each member is encouraged to focus on positive goals which are things they would really like to do, not just things they have to get done. These goals can range from being able to swim again after losing a limb, to going on holiday, to going for a coffee in to town.
Upcoming courses are planned as follows:
Eastbourne:
Date: Tuesday 22 September to Tuesday 27 October 2009
Time: 10.30am – 1pm
Venue: East Sussex Disability Association, 1 Faraday Close, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN22 9BH
Peacehaven:
Date: Thursday 8th October to Thursday 12th November 2009
Time: 2pm – 4.30pm
Venue: Meridian Centre, Meridian Way, Peacehaven, East Sussex, BN10 8BB
To register a place on these courses or for more information about courses in other locations, please contact Manjinder Dhaliwal via the Expert Patients Programme Information Line: Tel: 01273 403540 or e-mail: manjinder.dhaliwal@esdwpct.nhs.uk.
More information about the Expert Patients Programme can be found at www.expertpatients.nhs.uk.
The courses are not designed to replace the information provided by a GP or other healthcare professional.
Participant Quotes:
“It was the best thing that has happened to me in years.”
“I learned to be positive and proactive instead of passive.”
“I was groping around in the dark and then a light went on for me.”
