No, it's free
Expert Patients Programme / EPP FAQs
Do I need to be referred by my doctor?
No, the course is open to self-referrals as well as referrals from doctors and other professionals.
How is it structured?
Each course runs for two-and-a-half hours a week, for 6 weeks. There is one session a week and refreshments are provided. A maximum of 18 people attend the course. All participants have different health conditions.
Do I need to talk about my own condition?
There will be times where you will be talking about how your condition affects your life and what you would like to change. However it is up to you what you want to share and how much detail you want to give. All discussions are confidential.
Who are the tutors?
The course is run by two trained volunteers who themselves have long-term conditions.
Where are the courses held?
The courses are held in well-located community and health care venues, with facilities such as toilets and disabled access at the venue, as well as comfortable chairs and good access to public transport. You are free to stretch your legs, get up and walk around if you need to. It is not a hospital setting.
What do Islington participants say?
“It has helped me become more aware of my condition and how it affects me, and to feel that I can manage it to some extent through pacing, diet and relaxation techniques.”
“I really looked forward to coming here every week & meeting other people who inspired me. The tutors conducting EPP were first class.”
“Meeting people has helped me understand more about myself and ways of managing things… It has been a well run course and everyone has been very helpful and caring.”
How do I take part?
To find out more or to register for a course, call a member of the team on 020 7527 1189 or 020 7527 1209 or email at whh-tr.EPP@nhs.net. Alternatively, you can ask your GP or another health or social care professional to refer you.
Last updated09 Dec 2015