CAMARADERIE was on offer alongside some handy information from health professionals when a Wee County support group came together for its annual meeting in Alloa last week.

Members and guests of Breathe Easy Clackmannanshire gathered at St Mungo’s RC Church Hall last Thursday, June 14, to hear about the latest in healthcare and to enjoy a cuppa, cakes and friendly chat.

The support group, chaired by Linda McLeod who is set to receive a British Empire Medal for her involvement over the years, operates under the British Lung Foundation and offers help and company to patients with lung conditions.

Members heard from James Sheary, national partnership and engagement officer at NHS24 – who explained the latest developments in the service.

He highlighted the Info for Me service, which looks to collate all the relevant information people need in a digestible format online, where the sheer volume of information can become overwhelming.

Pre-registered pharmacist Sophia Rehman, from Well Pharmacy, spoke about Pharmacy First – a drive to get patients to seek treatment for common and minor illnesses in dispensaries instead of going to the often busy GP.

This can not only easy the pressure on local surgeries, it is often faster than having to secure an appointment.

Olwyn Lamont, lead respiratory nurse in the Forth Valley, and Sam Tahsin, keep well health assessor in the same region, followed along with Gordon Smith of the Scottish Ambulance Service.

Special guests on the day included MP Luke Graham and Councillor Kenny Earle with both congratulating Linda on her achievements.

It was a fairly busy event and extra chairs had to be set up in the hall to accommodate everyone coming along.

Linda told the Advertiser she was glad to see so many faces and thanked the speakers who all stayed to speak to people and provide further information.