Morris Pilling praises Expert Patient Programme

Morris Pilling

Morris Pilling, from Rochdale, affected by several long-term conditions has praised the support of a dedicated NHS service that helps people self-manage their conditions.

Morris, 73, was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, type two diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which he says left him feeling at an all-time low.

His struggle to come to terms with his condition led to him feeling very depressed and angry about his situation, which badly affected his family life and interest in doing things.

After being referred to the Expert Patient Programme (EPP), Morris says he is now able to control his emotions. The EPP is a service offered by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust to people in the Rochdale Borough with long-term conditions.

It consists of a free seven week programme, which is delivered by trained volunteers who were previously service users and have benefitted from the programme themselves.

The programme helps people living with long-term health conditions and their carers understand simple tools and strategies to think positively and break the ‘symptom cycle’.

It also encourages them to share experiences within the group and helps to improve problem solving, communication and increase activity; to ensure a better family life, and self-help manage their condition and caring situation.

Morris said: “Prior to commencing the programme, I was really struggling to come to terms with my condition and I did not see myself being able to cope in a group situation.

“After the first session, I surprised myself by agreeing to go to another, thanks in no small part to the way it was presented and the glowing reports from tutors about their own experiences.

“Over the weeks we began to gel as a group and I learnt to communicate my feelings effectively and use an action plan to ensure my goals are realistic.

“I would have no hesitation in recommending this programme as it certainly puts a whole new perspective on the way you approach your long-term condition or disability.”

Following completion of the EPP, Morris has now started a pulmonary rehab education programme, which provides further help and support in the management of his condition.

This includes breathing control, chest clearance, stress management, energy conservation and relaxation techniques.

Julie Dawson, Service Lead for the Expert Patient Programme, said: “The Programme has helped Morris identify the main cause of his anger and depression, and by using a simple process of self-management, Morris very quickly demonstrated his ability to manage his own condition along with the daily symptoms.

“Since completing the programme we are delighted to report that Morris will soon be volunteering with us, he is a great advocate of the Programme and we hope this will inspire others to start their self-management journey.”

People in Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale can access the EPP through their health or social care professional, or self-refer by calling 01706 676315.