Posted on: Wednesday 15 July 2026
A new peer support group for people living with heart conditions is helping residents in Cwmbran stay active, connected and informed.
The Dickie Tickers group was established in March and now attracts around 15 people each week to Llanyrafon Social Club.
The group brings together people living with a range of cardiovascular conditions in a welcoming, non-clinical setting, where they can share experiences, support one another and build lasting friendships.
The initiative was developed following work by Torfaen Council's Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC), which identified high levels of cardiovascular medication prescribing among residents in Llanyrafon and Croesyceliog.
Further research highlighted a lack of ongoing peer support for people after they had completed the NHS cardiac rehabilitation programme.
Working with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board's cardiac rehabilitation team, Torfaen Council's Community Capacity Team helped establish the group, drawing on a successful model already operating in Bargoed.
Members are typically referred to the group through cardiac rehabilitation services or their GP, although the group is open to anyone living with a heart condition.
The group has since become largely self-sustaining, with members creating their own WhatsApp network to stay in touch, discuss healthy lifestyles and organise activities such as gentle walks.
Leah Rideout, 53, who lives with a congenital heart defect, has since taken on a voluntary role within the group. Leah said:
"Before joining the group, I didn't know many people who had been through a similar experience. Dickie Tickers has given me a real sense of community and support.
“Everyone understands the challenges that can come with living with a heart condition, and there is always someone there to offer encouragement, advice or simply a friendly chat. It's a positive group I’m proud to be a part of, and it helps to keep us active, and living well."
Councillor Fiona Cross, Executive Member for Communities, said: "Dickie Tickers is a great example of the Torfaen Deal in action. By bringing together the council, health partners and the community, we've helped create a support network that is now being led by local people themselves.
"It shows the difference communities can make when they are empowered to support one another to live healthier, more connected lives."
The research project was prompted through collaboration with the Croesyceiliog and Llanyrafon Community Council.
If you are concerned about your heart health or are living with a cardiac condition, you can join the group every Monday, 11am - 12pm at Llanyrafon social club.