Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) is a clinically proven programme designed to help people living with long-term respiratory conditions improve their breathing, confidence, and overall quality of life.

At East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (ESHT), our multidisciplinary PR team provides personalised, supportive, and safe rehabilitation tailored to individual needs.

Who is Pulmonary Rehabilitation for?

Pulmonary Rehabilitation is recommended for people diagnosed with a chronic respiratory condition, including COPD, bronchiectasis, and interstitial lung disease. It is suitable for those who experience breathlessness during daily activities and want to improve fitness, strength, and self‑management skills.

What Does the programme include?

Our structured 6‑week programme, including 2x 2 hour sessions per week includes:

  • Individually tailored exercise sessions to improve strength and endurance.
  • Education sessions covering anatomy and physiology, breathlessness management, chest clearance, energy conservation, managing flare‑ups, pacing, medication use, and much more.
  • Guidance from specialist physiotherapists, nurses, and respiratory clinicians.
  • Support to build confidence in staying active long‑term.

Benefits of Pulmonary Rehabilitation

  • Improved fitness and ability to carry out everyday activities.
  • Reduced breathlessness and fatigue.
  • Fewer hospital admissions and flare‑ups.
  • Increased confidence to stay active safely and independently

Where Is Pulmonary Rehabilitation delivered?

We offer pulmonary rehabilitation at several locations across East Sussex.

We run rolling programmes in Eastbourne and Hastings all year round and satellite programmes in Seaford, Hailsham, Bexhill and Rye based on demand in the area, ensuring accessibility and convenience for our community.

How to Be Referred

Referrals can be made by GPs, respiratory consultants, specialist nurses, or other healthcare professionals. If you feel you may benefit from Pulmonary Rehabilitation, speak with your healthcare provider about a referral to ESHT Pulmonary Rehabilitation services.

Useful information and links:
Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) | Asthma + Lung UK
NHS England » Pulmonary rehabilitation
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