The Expert Patient Programme (EPP)

EPP  is a free course for adults living with a long-term health condition or caring for someone with a long term condition. This can include anything like pain, diabetes, COPD, cancer and mild to moderate mental health conditions.

The course is held over 6 weekly 2.5 hour sessions, at different venues across Merton and Wandsworth, with 12-16 individuals per course (7 weeks for virtual courses). The aim of the course is to improve your health and wellbeing by developing and learning new skills to help you care for yourself or help you as a carer. The course covers topics including; getting a good night’s sleep, preventing falls, exercise and healthy eating, diabetes, coping with feelings of depression, dealing with pain, planning for the future and relaxation techniques. 

Individuals who have attended the course report feeling more in control of their condition. In addition, many users continue to communicate and meet up after the course is over leading to increased social interaction and reduced feeling of isolation.

Merton & Wandsworth Self-Management Service

Additional info: We take referrals from doctors, Social prescribers, medical health workers or they can self- refer via our website, phone or email. You can become a tutor once you have completed the course. You will be trained and accredited before being allowed to teach.