A NEW programme has helped sheltered housing residents get more in control of their health.
The Expert Patients Programme (EPP) was piloted at Walker Street retirement housing in Thornhill Lees, Dewsbury.
The free NHS course is aimed at anyone with long-term health illness who wishes to learn skills for controlling and improving their health.
Because many of the residents had concerns about travelling to a course and talking to strangers, Kirklees NHS staff brought the course to them.
Participants learnt about managing their symptoms, relaxation, healthy eating, dealing with fear and depression and other useful skills that will help them feel more confident and stay well.
Julie Battison, Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing’s scheme coordinator for Walker Street, said the course has been a great success, with nine residents taking part.
She said: “As well as learning how to manage their health, the course has benefited people socially.
“They’ve got to know each other better and have offered support to each other to complete the homework challenges.
“New friendships have been forged, and everyone has been full of praise for the course and the trainers.”
Residents were presented with certificates by EPP course tutors Rehana Hussain and Peter Irvine.
Following its success NHS staff plan to run more courses in other retirement complexes across Kirklees.
