Drive to put long-term sick in control of lives

A STRATEGY for people with long-term health conditions to gain more control of their life has been launched in Edinburgh.

The initiative was unveiled with appearances by health minister Nicola Sturgeon, sufferers of long-term illness and a range of NHS managers and health charities.

The programme highlights a number of aims, including more access to peer support and better circulation of information on a variety of conditions and how to control them.

The Self Management Strategy for Long Term Conditions in Scotland found that as far as physical conditions were concerned there had to be better emotional and psychological support systems in place rather than just physical care.

Audrey Birt, chairwoman of the Long Term Conditions Alliance Scotland, said:

"The World Health Organisation recognises long-term conditions as one of the biggest challenges to health around the world.

"We want to see Scotland meet this challenge."