Practices are encouraged to signpost patients and their carers to education and peer support following a diagnosis of COPD or asthma. Asthma + Lung UK provides a range of free online, telephone and face-to-face support services for people living with asthma, COPD and other lung conditions.
These services can complement routine clinical care by helping patients improve their understanding of their condition, develop self-management skills, and connect with others living with similar conditions.
The charity runs a range of online education sessions for people newly diagnosed with COPD or asthma, as well as peer support groups and community activities. A telephone helpline staffed by respiratory nurses and healthcare advisors is also available to provide confidential advice and support to patients and carers.
Practices are encouraged to consider signposting eligible patients during consultations, at the point of diagnosis, during annual respiratory reviews, or following exacerbations.
Further details and registration are as below:
Online support groups
An online education session led by a registered respiratory nurse. The session runs every other month on the first Wednesday at 2pm via Zoom.
A free online peer support group where patients can meet and connect with others living with COPD. Sessions run every second Thursday of the month at 12 noon via Zoom.
An introductory session covering asthma management, delivered by respiratory specialists. Sessions run every other month on the first Wednesday at 2pm via Zoom.
Telephone helpline
Patients and carers can access independent, confidential advice from respiratory nurses and healthcare advisors:
t: 0300 222 5800 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm)
e: helpline@asthmaandlung.org.uk
Face-to-face and community support
Additional local support groups are available, including Singing for Lung Health programmes and in-person support groups in Barnet, Islington and Westminster. See the support available in your local area.
Further information and registration details are available on the Asthma + Lung UK website.
