PEOPLE in Derwentside with long-term medical conditions have been offered the chance to take part in a scheme to help them cope with their illnesses.

Derwentside Primary Care Trust (PCT) is seeking people to take part in its third Expert Patient Programme, due to start in Stanley next Tuesday.

The scheme offers courses to help people cope with conditions such as arthritis, asthma, back pain, diabetes, heart conditions, multiple sclerosis and mental health problems.

The free courses will run alongside medical treatments, and some of the benefits can include a reduction in symptoms, less pain, greater self-confidence and a better quality of life.

The programme will run for six weeks, covering topics such as finding information, making action plans, pain management, communicating with health professionals and coping with depression.

Pam Gwynn, patient advice and liaison service manager with Derwentside PCT, said: "It is a fantastic scheme, because it is about people helping other people with the same illnesses and conditions and sharing their experiences and difficulties to improve their health for themselves.

"Research has shown that the overall benefits of the programme are numerous.

"They can help reduce severe symptoms, improve quality of life and increase patients' confidence.

"Doctors and medical staff have also found the programmes help improve relationships with patients and actually reduce consultation time or frequency of visits."

Anyone interested in attending the course, or who would like to find out more about the programme, can call Pam Gwynn on (01207) 594458.