AN innovative project to help people suffering from chronic disease is being run in Falmouth.

The Expert Patient Programme was piloted in Cornwall two years ago, and has gone from strength to strength.

It aims to help people suffering from chronic disease such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, diabetes and Parkinson's Disease to manage their conditions for themselves. The course consists of six two and a half hour weekly sessions which are led by "expert patients" - volunteers who themselves suffer from a chronic disease.

Kay Wilton attended a course and was so inspired by its success she became a volunteer tutor herself.

She said: "I personally found the course inspiring and was empowered to help myself, so much so that I wanted to help others deal with the problems of their chronic disease."

The programme covers areas such as symptom management, relaxation, communication skills and dealing with fear and frustration.

The course runs from Friday, September 17, until Friday, October 22, at the Health Centre, Trevaylor Road, Falmouth.

More information and application forms can be obtained from Cathie Shipwright at Central Cornwall Primary Care Trust on 01726 77777.