Long Covid help group is launched in Badenoch and Strathspey
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Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland has launched its newest peer support group for people living with the health conditions and Long Covid in Badenoch and Strathspey.
The All-Conditions Support group, which held its first session in November, meets at Boat of Garten Community Hall.
The next session takes place on Monday January 29 between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
CHSS is one of the country’s leading health charities, supporting the one in five people across the country living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and Long Covid to live life to the full.
Since January, last year, Vince McLaughlin has been working as the community healthcare support services co-ordinator for Badenoch and Strathspey, Lochaber, Kyle and Lochalsh.
Commenting on the new support group, Mr McLaughlin said: “My role is to support people with new diagnoses of chest, heart and stroke conditions who are leaving hospital, as well as those in the community who have been living with these conditions for a number of years.
“At CHSS, we know that people living with our conditions often leave hospital feeling frightened, alone and unable to access the services they desperately need.
“Our community support groups offer connection and friendship with people who understand what it’s like to live with a long-term health condition.
“I’d encourage anyone in the community who is interested in finding out more to come along to our next session or get in touch with me directly.”
Mr McLaughlin works closely with community health teams, local GP practices and hospital-based health professionals and currently supports a number of people who have been referred through the NHS or by friends and family.
By providing advice, one-to-one, or group support through our Peer Support Groups, CHSS can support those living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and Long Covid to get back to doing things they love – spending time with friends and family, or enjoying an activity or hobby they took part in before their diagnosis.
The CHSS Peer Support Group takes place on Mondays at the community hall off Craigie Avenue.
Other scheduled meeting dates are 19th February, 4th March, 25th March, 15th April, 6th May, 20th May, 17th June and 8th July. Further dates will be announced in due course.
For more information on the support group contact vince.mclaughlin@chss.org.uk .
For general advice and support from CHSS visit www.chss.org.uk or call their advice line on 0808 801 0899.
