Patients living with long-term respiratory conditions are being supported to improve their health and independence through pulmonary rehabilitation sessions in Walsall.

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Community Respiratory Therapy Team is working in partnership with Oak Park Active Living Centre to deliver the sessions, helping patients manage their condition and reduce the risk of hospital admission.

The eight-week programme combines exercise and support to help patients improve their breathing, fitness and confidence. It is aimed at anyone with Chronic Respiratory Disease and breathlessness which limits their daily activities.

It also gives patients an opportunity to meet others living with respiratory conditions, providing an important social element alongside their rehabilitation.

Suzie Morris, Team Lead for the Community Respiratory Therapy Team, said: “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.”

For Walsall resident, Carol, taking part has made a significant difference to her everyday life.

The 66-year-old said: “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.”

Luke Lester, Fitness Instructor at Oak Park Active Living Centre, said: “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.