CREW

In June 2007 when CREW (Cardiac Rehabilitation through Exercise and Walking) started their local campaign only 42% of heart patients in Calderdale received cardiac rehabilitation. A year later this figure has risen to almost 60%.

Based in Calderdale, West Yorkshire, the Heart Support Group lead walking and exercise programmes in their local area for patients in all phases of cardiac rehabilitation after release from hospital.

CREW took up the challenge of the National Campaign for Cardiac Rehabilitation in 2007. They set about raising the awareness of this life saving treatment in their local area.

CREW members wrote to their MP, their local NHS chief and to local newspapers. They organised fundraising events, including sponsored walks, and sent delegates to our Westminster Parliamentary rally for cardiac rehab. They’ve even got members of their group on local NHS heart steering groups.

Through all this local activity CREW have certainly got their voice heard and managed to get many articles about them and their campaign into local newspapers.

Having high profile patrons endorsing their campaign has helped CREW get further local media coverage. CREW have two patrons - their local Calder Valley MP, Chris McCafferty and Consultant Cardiologist, Tim Bloomer.

Local success

For more information on CREW and their work, you can visit their website 

Has your Heart Support Group got a story to tell? If so please email us at campaigns@bhf.org.uk