Expert Patient Programme from 8th Sept until 13th Oct 2011

15 places available

The Expert Patient Programme builds on the principal that people with long-term health problems already know best how their condition affects the way they feel, their lifestyle and their ability to accomplish activities important to them. The course explores ways to positively manage their symptoms, to improve on daily activities and manage the changing emotions that can be brought about by a chronic condition.

This course is open to anyone with a long term condition such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, COPD, coronary heart disease, arthritis or any long term condition. If you feel the time is right to learn new life skills to help you cope better in your day to day living and gain confidence in managing your condition then this course is for you.

This is a free course and runs for six weeks from Thursday 8th September until Thursday 13th October. Each weekly session lasts for two and half hours, running from 2.00 pm to 4.30pm.  This course will take place at Reading’s International Solidarity Centre (RISC), 35-39 London Street, Reading, UK, RG1 4PS.

Weekly sessions cover topics such as managing symptoms, relaxation techniques, diet and exercise, how to communicate effectively with health care practitioners and how to deal with some of the difficult emotions of fear and frustration. The atmosphere is very informal and supportive which enables people to relax and get to know each other.  The venues are checked to ensure they are accessible for wheelchair use.  Family carers of those on the course are welcome to link up with the course tutors, although they will not attend the sessions themselves.

There are 15 places available on the September course so if you are interested in joining the course you need to apply before Thursday 18th August to Lesley Wyman on 0118 982 2885, email: lesley.wyman@berkshire.nhs.uk.