self management uk's chief executive Renata Drinkwater and volunteer tutor Zev Taylor spoke at the Long Term Conditions Year of Care Early Implementer Sites workshop in December 2014, in London.
Renata talked about the benefits of self-management for patients and the NHS. Zev Taylor shared his experience of living with a long-term condition and how self-management has helped him to turn his life around:
"I have been able to go back to work, volunteering for self management uk, training and being a part of the organisation. I also like the chance to have some social time where I can enjoy myself and do things for myself without feeling too guilty. This enables me to feel more confident and be comfortable in my own skin. Being an expert in your own condition helps you when dealing with healthcare professionals. self management uk's course makes you more aware of how your symptoms/condition affect your day-to-day health and wellbeing. If you have more control over your condition, you have more choice. Don't let your condition run your life."
