People with breathing problems encouraged to sign up for new Healthy Lives Course

By Ben Fitzgerald - 30 September 2019

Health

From 1 October, free health and wellbeing sessions for local people with breathing difficulties will be offered by Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Healthy Lives is a rehabilitation course which equips people with the information, support and confidence they need to better manage their condition and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Designed for people living with long-term conditions which cause breathlessness, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), lung fibrosis, bronchiectasis, chronic asthma, or patients preparing for or who are recovering from lung surgery, the course is tailored to meet the specific needs of people living with these conditions.

Anyone interested in attending Healthy Lives is encouraged to speak to their GP or practice nurse to see if they would be suitable. If the GP or practice nurse believes the individual will benefit, they will make a referral and a letter will be sent inviting the individual to attend. 

Healthy Lives involves twice weekly group sessions which take place over a six to seven week course at Haydon Wick Community Centre or Park South Community Centre.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet others with similar conditions, share their experiences and take part in gentle exercise and rehabilitation. Attendees will also learn more about their condition, how to live more comfortably with their condition and will also be able to ask questions, all in a supportive and relaxed environment.

Amanda Horton, COPD Clinical Lead, Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“I would encourage anyone with COPD, lung fibrosis, bronchiectasis or chronic asthma, to speak to their GP about their suitability for Healthy Lives.  

“It’s an opportunity to meet others with similar conditions and talk over a tea or coffee in a friendly and supportive environment.

“As Healthy Lives is designed specifically for people with breathing difficulties, we are really aware of the anxiety which comes with this. We do encourage some gentle exercise, but I’d like to stress that this is only one element of the course and shouldn’t put anyone off!

“This is all about meeting new people and gaining the tools, knowledge and support network you need to manage your condition with more confidence and live a healthier life.”

Healthy Lives was previously provided by Swindon Borough Council and will be provided by Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust from 1 October 2019.

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