Respiratory clinic space opened to community

Medway Asthma Self Help service has been able to reintroduce face-to-face clinics using specialist Sports & Exercise Science facilities at the University’s Medway campus. Written by Sam Wood.

The University has supported the Medway Asthma Self Help (MASH) clinic return to face-to-face sessions with clients by providing the free use of its Respiratory Clinic space on its Medway campus. The Clinic is known for working with GB athletes.

This led to the first time in 18 months that MASH was able to offer clients face-to-face lung function assessment services since ceasing due to Covid restrictions. MASH provided online and telephone support throughout lockdown, but face-to-face sessions can now continue.

The charity MASH is a resource for people with asthma and their families that has supported the Medway community since 1996 with free information and support for people with asthma.

MASH is used by clients of all ages across the area, many of whom have been unable to access the support they need, which has led to difficulties throughout the lockdown period.

The University’s Respiratory Clinic, within the School of Sport and Exercise Science, allowed MASH use of its regulation-approved spaces that have been vacated since the School moved location to the Canterbury campus.

In this space, face-to-face sessions were able to restart for clients and families eager to access the MASH facilities and support.

Professor John Dickinson, Head of the Exercise Respiratory Clinic at Kent and Trustee of MASH said: ‘We are delighted to support the fantastic work that the Medway Asthma Self Help clinic provides to the Medway community. The contribution MASH makes as a local support and information resource cannot be understated. It is vital work in a crucial area and the University of Kent is happy to support through the use of our premises.’

MASH works with health professionals and Asthma UK to raise awareness and knowledge of asthma for the people of Medway. Clients are able to see a specialist asthma nurse, have asthma allergy testing, receive a lung function test and gain expert advice on treatment and using inhalers.

The University’s Respiratory Clinic provides advice and support to the public, as well as state-of-the art testing and customised solutions for athletes with respiratory issues, including; England Men’s Football Team, Liverpool Football Club, Arsenal Football Club, GB Swimming Team, GB Boxing Team, Team Sky, UK Athletics, GB Canoeing and GB Rowing.