ARTHRITIS CARE has been selected by Watford and Three Rivers PCT to deliver a programme of self-management training for people with long-term health conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, back pain and diabetes.

Self-management helps people live with, and deal with, their condition in a more positive and informed way.

The three-year agreement majors on a course called Living Well and will be run in partnership with the PCT and the Expert Patient Programme.

The six-week course, which is for two-and-a-half hours each week, is free. Course leaders all have a long-term condition themselves and have been fully trained.

Topics covered include: How to manage symptoms and/or pain The benefits of exercise, relaxation and healthy eating Coping with fatigue and negative feelings Relationships with health professionals Improving problem-solving and communication skills For more information on Living Well courses in Watford telephone Maggie Sellen on 01223 870885 .