A NEW group aiming to provide invaluable support for Warrington residents affected by ‘devastating’ long Covid has been launched.

The self-help group has been set up by Warrington Hospital, Warrington Borough Council’s wellbeing service, Warrington Disability Partnership and Warrington Clinical Commissioning Group.

Fortnightly sessions give people to chance to meet with others affected by Covid-19 in an informal and welcoming setting, where they can share experiences, get advice and access a range of support services.

Staff will be on-hand to ensure people are able to discuss the issues they are facing and access the support they need.

The group has been supported by mayor of Warrington Cllr Maureen Creaghan, who worked with partners to set up the group after speaking to residents whose lives have been severely affected by the illness and its aftermath.

“Covid-19 has had a devastating effect on so many people’s lives,” she said.

“It has absolutely vital that everyone affected has a voice and can get the help and support they need, going forward.

“It is so important for us to bring people together so they know they are not alone.

“That is what this group is about – giving local people a forum where they can speak to other people who may be going through similar challenges, access support and advice, listen to the stories of others and share their own experiences.”

Dave Thompson, co-founder and chief executive of Warrington Disability Partnership, added: “As an organisation, we know the devastating effects that Covid-19 has had on the community that we serve.

“Many of the people who have long Covid are presenting with difficulties aligned to long-term health conditions, to which we have three decades of experience of dealing with.

“Starting from providing a listening ear and mutual support, we hope the self-help groups will show people that they are not alone, and there is help in easy reach.”

The sessions will be held on Fridays at Warrington Disability Partnership’s Centre for Independent Living on Beaufort Street in Sankey Bridges.

The group is open to anyone who is recovering from the illness or suffering the effects of long Covid, along with those who are providing care for family members and friends.

Upcoming meetings take place between 11am and 12.30pm online via Zoom, and from 1.30pm to 3pm in person, on February 18, March 4 and March 18.

Booking is required to attend, and this can be done by calling Leigh on 240064 or by emailing longcovid@disabilitypartnership.org.uk