THE first course of a pioneering national Menopause Support Programme starts in Topsham this month.

THE first course of a pioneering national Menopause Support Programme starts in Topsham this month.

Set up by Heather Fairbairn with her husband Iain it will give information, advice and support to women and their families.

Heather found hormone replacement therapy was not right for her so began to look at all areas of her life that she felt might be having an effect on her symptoms.

The programme will be delivered through regular evening meetings and give women practical self-help tips on how to help themselves.

They will receive information on what foods, drinks, supplements and exercise they can do and discuss on the latest research on HRT and its pros and cons.

There will also be details on complementary therapies and the

first group is being led by Heather and her colleague Cathy Roguski, a trained nurse, medical herbalist, homeopath and aromatherapist.

"I hope this programme can help many women, who are having a difficult time...and feel there is nowhere to turn for help or advice" says Heather.

"I believe every woman's menopause is different...what is the 'right' treatment for one woman is not necessarily 'right' for another.

"At Menopause Support we will give her the information and support so that she can make the best possible choice for herself."

The first programme starts with a group of 12 women in Topsham on Monday evenings from Sept 28.

If you want more information, call Heather or Cathy on 07837 363961 or visit their website at www.menopausesupport.org.uk.