A HOSPICE charity based in Gloucestershire has said it is ready to support people who suffer from heart failure.

A recent study has shown that heart failure patients who are depressed are five times more likely to die from their condition within a year.

The chief investigator of the study and professor of cardiology at Imperial College London and the University of Hull has called for more holistic support for patients including counselling.

Longfield, formerly known as Cotswold Care Hospice, provides support for people in Gloucestershire who suffer from heart failure.

One form of support is Longfield’s Art for Health programme which the charity runs as part of it outreach services

Head of care services at Longfield Sian Cole said: “The art for health outreach programme is aimed to support patients living with life limiting long-term conditions such as heart failure.

“The programme helps people develop coping mechanisms and can support them with their emotional needs as well as their physical needs.”

The art for health outreach programme promotes relaxation, general motivation and building self-confidence. It can also help with physical symptoms such as fatigue and breathlessness.

Longfield, based in Minchinhampton, provides all its services free of charge.

To find out about the services provided by Longfield log on to www.longfield.org.uk