RESIDENTS struggling with arthritis can learn to live a less painful life with the help of a new class starting in Redditch.

Launching in early February, Joint Effort is a gentle exercise class which helps participants strengthen and mobilise arthritic joints.

Thanks to funding from Versus Arthritis and Sport England, Redditch Borough Council’s Sports Development Team can offer the programme for free for the initial 12 weeks.

Hayley Gwilliam, health intervention officer, said: “At face value it seems absurd that exercising more can alleviate pain, but it really works.

"Both the NHS and Versus Arthritis advocate appropriate exercise to manage the symptoms of joint pain, and I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable improvement participants can achieve through this course."

Classes will take place every Thursday, 1.15pm to 2.15pm, at The Windmill Centre in Ryegrass Lane, starting Thursday, February 3.

Cllr Matt Dormer said: “Congratulations to our Sports Development Team for successfully bidding for this additional funding which means we can help more residents to live a pain free life. Living with pain can be really debilitating and sometimes costly.

Those interested are asked to complete an online registration form at www.redditchbc.gov.uk/jointeffort to give an idea of class attendance.