A PRIMARY Care health trust has launched an initiative to help people suffering long-term medical problems.
People in Derwentside will be given the chance to take part in an Expert Patient Programme at an awareness raising event at 12.30pm on Thursday.
The event at the Stanley Civic Hall also aims to raise the profile of the programme among medical professionals in the district.
Part of a national scheme developed by the Department of Health, it will offer courses to help people with problems such as arthritis, asthma, back pain, diabetes, heart conditions, multiple sclerosis and mental ill-health.
The course runs alongside medical treatments and includes advice on talking to doctors and depression.
Trust community and partnership development officer, Verna Fee, said: "The programme can help reduce severe symptoms, improve quality of life and activity, and increase patients' confidence."
Anyone who is interested can contact Ms Fee on (01207) 214371.
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