Heart Health Month: Supporting recovery beyond the clinic in Harrow
As Heart Health Month draws to a close, we’re reflecting on the many ways our teams in Harrow support patients not just during treatment, but long after it ends.
One important part of this support is our heart patient group, made up of people who have previously used our heart failure and cardiac rehabilitation services in Harrow. Many members joined after having a cardiac event, often a heart attack, or after completing their rehab programme. The group was created after patients told us they wanted ongoing support and the chance to connect with others who had been through similar experiences.
The group meets every six to eight weeks. At each session, our cardiology team provides education based on topics suggested by members. We also invite guest speakers to talk about areas such as medication, exercise, diet and emotional wellbeing. Just as importantly, the meetings give people time to talk openly, share their experiences and offer each other encouragement.
Members often say that being part of the group helps them feel less alone in their recovery. It provides reassurance, practical advice and a safe space to ask questions. For many, recovery doesn’t end when rehab finishes — and this group helps bridge that gap.
Some members are also part of our cardiology patient panel, where they share their views on how services can improve. One panel member has recently started volunteering with the team, and there are plans to involve patient representatives in future staff recruitment.
The panel member said:
“It is difficult to remove what might be waiting around the corner. Therefore, the ability to be able to have the support and guidance of the community rehab programme, is in my view, vital to all those affected to help build confidence and belief to be able, eventually, to move on with their lives.”
The group has also linked up with heart support groups in neighbouring boroughs, with hopes of joining each other’s activities in the months ahead.
Maria Cracknell, Team Lead said:
“Our patient support group celebrated the national heart’s day on the 4th Feb. Alongside our elected topic for that evening, we also took a moment to review and reflect on how far the service and the group have come, highlighting our milestones in the last quarter . We are truly proud and grateful to have our cardiology patient panel and support group. Not only are they a source of wellbeing support to one another, they are also our main source of perspective, learning, and inspiration to keep our passion aflame in working towards continuous betterment in the quality of care that we deliver”.
Jackie Allain, Director, Outer North West Division said:
“Heart Health Month is a reminder that recovery doesn’t stop when treatment ends. I’m proud of the way our teams in Harrow continue to support patients beyond the clinic, helping them stay well and feel supported in their journey”.
The Cardiac Rehab Service has been nominated for the Healthy Harrow Awards 2026, by a few of the participants from this group. The Healthy Harrow Awards 2026 celebrate the incredible individuals, organisations, and community groups who go above and beyond to make Harrow a healthier, happier place to live. The Awards are a chance to say “Thank You” to the people making a real difference, inspire others to take action, and celebrate the collective effort that keeps Harrow thriving. The winners will be announced in March.
As Heart Health Month comes to an end, this group is a reminder that recovery is about more than medical care. Ongoing support and shared experiences all play a vital role in helping people across Harrow move forward with confidence.
