PEOPLE with long-term medical conditions are getting advice and information about how to live with their illnesses - from fellow sufferers.

People in part of County Durham are helping patients with the same chronic illnesses to cope with their complaints through the Expert Patients Programme.

Durham Dales Primary Care Trust (PCT) launched the programme, part of a national scheme developed by the Department of Health, at the Four Clocks Centre, Bishop Auckland, last month.

It aims to give people with ailments such as arthritis, asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, heart conditions, multiple sclerosis and mental health problems support from people with first-hand experience and knowledge.

Volunteer experts, who will understand the questions fellow patients have, are trained to lead free six-week courses offering practical tips to groups of between 12 and 16 people.

The courses, covering 17 topics, run alongside medical treatments and offer advice on healthy eating, exercise, communicating with health professionals, coping with depression, relaxation and communication.

Liz Johnson, a senior Department of Health trainer, said: "Research has shown that the overall benefits for patients who attend are numerous.

"Doctors and medical staff have also found that the programmes help to improve relationships with patients and actually reduces consultation time."

Katherine Humby, of the PCT, said: "The programme is a fantastic scheme because it is all about people with chronic illness helping other people with chronic illnesses and sharing their experience to improve health."

For details of how to become a volunteer expert patient, or forthcoming courses, contact (01833) 638828 or (01388) 458835.