Jan Stevenson’s experience of living with Crohn’s disease is inspiring people in Herefordshire with long-term health conditions to live life to the full.

Jan, who lives near Ross-on-Wye, is a volunteer tutor on the Expert Patient Programme – a self-management course run by Wye Valley NHS Trust for people with long-term health conditions which is helping scores of local people turn their lives around every year.

“I attended the course two years ago and it made a huge difference - it was brilliant and has helped me see my illness in context,” said Jan.

The course gives people with long-term health conditions strategies and plans to help them manage their condition – importantly, they are led by people with long-term conditions who can speak from personal experience.

“It changed my life and continues to do so as there’s a group of us from the course I initially attended who continue to meet and support each other,” added Jan, who has been trained as a volunteer tutor and has delivered several of the six-week courses in the last couple of years.

“We cover a number of topics which cover everything from being alert to symptoms, to decision making, action planning and diet and exercise.

“These are key areas which empower people with long-term health conditions to take control and manage their illnesses. We’ve seen some amazing transformations – sometimes this happens after just the first week of the course.

“We understand that there will be some people who are very outgoing and others who would rather just listen and take in the information. These courses are for everyone and there’s no pressure. The sessions are friendly and we want people to feel comfortable and enjoy our time together.”

“If there’s anyone out there who feels they might benefit from attending the course, please take that first step and get in touch – you won’t regret it”.

Jan is one of the tutors at a new Expert Patient Programme group which starts in Ross-on-Wye on May 17th. Other courses are also being held in Hereford, Bromyard, Ledbury and Leominster.

Volunteer tutors are fully trained before they start delivering sessions themselves, and always deliver courses with an experienced co-tutor. Although the role is voluntary, any out of pocket expenses and travelling costs will be reimbursed.

Full support and guidance is available for volunteers whilst delivering the course and also when help and advice about any aspect of tutoring is needed. There are also regular tutor meetings and social activities.

Anyone wanting to join the free Expert Patient Programme should contact Sue Tobey on 01432 364463.