A SCHEME for people living with long-term medical conditions is up and running in the North-East.

The Expert Patient Programme offers courses to help people cope with long-term illnesses and conditions such as arthritis, asthma, back pain, diabetes, heart conditions and mental illness.

The courses have been developed by the Department of Health and include advice on finding out information, talking to doctors, coping with depression, relaxation and communication.

They will be run across the North and will be led by people who suffer from long-term conditions.

The free courses take place over six weeks, with each session lasting about two and a half hours. To take part, call 0191-301 1522.