The Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Community Respiratory Therapy Team is collaborating with Oak Park Active Living Centre to provide these sessions. The initiative aims to help patients better manage their conditions and reduce the likelihood of hospital admissions.
The comprehensive eight-week programme integrates exercise with crucial support, designed to improve patients' breathing, overall fitness, and self-confidence. It is specifically targeted at individuals diagnosed with Chronic Respiratory Disease who experience breathlessness that impacts their daily activities.
Beyond the physical benefits, the sessions offer a valuable social element, allowing patients to connect with others facing similar respiratory challenges.
“"The group has been very successful and being able to see our patients achieve their goals is extremely rewarding. Working with Oak Park Active Living Centre means we can reach more patients across Walsall. It also gives them the opportunity to continue attending classes after they have completed their eight-week programme with our team, which is really important in helping them maintain their progress."
Walsall resident Carol, 66, shared how the programme has significantly improved her daily life. "I was on oxygen before joining the group and the team has helped me come off it and improve my breathing drastically. It has been an absolute lifesaver for me. The team is so upbeat, and they really want you to do well. I can’t thank them enough."
“"We really look forward to seeing the group each week. Seeing everyone improve is our goal and we are really happy to be able to support them here at the leisure centre."
Patients can be referred to the service by a respiratory specialist in the community.
