PEOPLE living with chronic medical conditions in the Sedgefield borough are being offered the chance to take part in a Department of Health initiative.
The Expert Patient Programme (EPP) is a national initiative offering courses to help people cope with conditions including arthritis, asthma, back pain, multiple sclerosis or mental illnesses.
The courses are designed to run concurrent with medical treatment and benefits can include less severe symptoms and reduced pain, greater self-confidence and better quality of life.
The first course in the Sedgefield borough, which was held in July, attracted 15 people with chronic conditions.
A second course is to begin at the Pioneering Care Centre, in Newton Aycliffe, on October 23.
The course will be led by tutors who have personal experience of long-term or chronic illnesses and will cover topics including finding out information, communicating with health professionals, friends and family, and coping with depression.
The sessions are free and transport can be provided if needed.
The EPP courses are supported by Sedgefield Primary Care Trust and the Pioneering Care Partnership.
Anyone with a chronic illness who would like to attend the course, should contact Janice Taylor or Carolyn Siddle on 0191-333 3978, or the Pioneering Care Centre on (01325) 321234.
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