FIFTEEN volunteers have offered to help out at a new health club which is being set up in Nailsea.

The Leg Club will provide medical care in a social setting to reduce the risk of isolation for those who are housebound due to problems with their legs.

The group is being started to provide treatment and support to people suffering from ulcers, but patients with conditions including varicose veins, rashes and skin problems will also be able to get help from medical professionals.

The drop-in group will be for anyone to use with local district and practice nurses providing clinical care.

Refreshments will be available and patients will also be able to socialise with other people.

Carole Brooke, practice manager for Tower House Medical Centre, said: “A Leg Club provides excellent medical care in a social setting, reducing social isolation for those who have become housebound due to problems with their legs.

“Ulcers in particular cause real concerns, particularly in the elderly, but the Leg Club can also review varicose veins, rashes, skin problems, etc, and healing rates are proven to be better than the current system.”

The club will be able to provide other health and wellbeing services such as flu vaccinations, NHS health checks, dietary advice and support to stop smoking.

A committee has now been formed to take the project forward with support from Nailsea Town Council and the Tithe Barn Trust.

The club is being backed by GPs in the town, North Somerset Community Partnership, Rotary, the Retired and Senior Voluntary Service and Curo.

Organisers also need to enlist individuals and community groups to provide people with transport to and from the club.

The weekly drop-in sessions will be held in the Tithe Barn, Church Lane, and it is hoped it could be set up around June.

Anyone interested in finding out more or volunteering can contact Carole on 01275 866753.