Who we are

GCRA+ is a patient led charity founded in 2002 by three cardiac patients to establish and run Phase IV Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise classes in Grampian. By 2013, 30 weekly cardiac rehab and prevention exercise classes were established covering an area of over 2500 sq miles.

After piloting generic exercise classes for patients with a range of long term health conditions on behalf of NHS Grampian in 2013/14, a decision was made by the board of directors to open up our classes to the same range of NHS patients.

Now in 2019 GCRA+ can say that over 2000 people have benefited from taking part in our classes and we currently lead 39 cardiac rehab and prevention circuits-based, gentle movement and chair-based classes throughout Aberdeen City & Shire.

The range of long term health conditions are:

Who operates GCRA+

The charity is a company limited by guarantee and managed by a voluntary board of directors who actively oversee the direction and smooth running of the organisation. In addition, they actively identify potential locations and set up new classes as required., ensure safety in the classes, organise training for our instructors fund raise, interact with outside agencies and private business etc.

Robert Paton Chairman

In 2000, I had a heart attack followed by a triple heart bypass operation. After 3 months, my GP in Turriff encouraged me to go to the local Phase 4 cardiac rehabilitation class. I decided to go and that was the best I could have made. I soon became more confident physically and mentally to carry on with my life. It is my great privilege to be the Chairman of GCRA+ and to provide the opportunity for many NHS patients to improve their health by exercising at our exercise classes.
Sue Kinsey Vice-Chairman

I have been involved in volunteering all my life and have been a patient/public advocate in various areas of the health service for many years. I am a strong believer in community involvement and know that people are more willing and able to take responsibility for their own health and wellbeing than they are often given credit for.
Bert Lyon Committee

I had a heart attack in March, 2006 and became a member of GCRA+ in August, 2006. I could see and feel the improved quality of life it gave everyone who attended the classes due to the exercise instruction provided by a team of very knowledgeable and caring instructors. I was persuaded to run a 10km in April, 2007 by our class instructor, Jane Eaton, as I had never been to a gym before and she trained and guided me with great care to complete the run and raise £3,000 between the two of us for GCRA+. Exercise for life is the answer.
George Allan Committee

I had my first two heart attacks in May, 1985 and, at that time, there was no Cardiac Rehabilitation programme or facility in existence. Following my discharge from medical care, I resumed the same lifestyle I had before the heart attacks, which ultimately resulted in my last cardiac event in 2004. This time, I took part in the NHS Cardiac Rehabilitation programme up to Phase 3. Subsequently, I was referred to GCRA+'s Phase 4 classes by my GP. I was so impressed with the concept of Cardiac Rehabilitation, the work GCRA+ was doing, the standards it was operating to, and what it was achieving that I jumped at the chance to help the charity and was duly elected onto the Board in September, 2008. I have assisted with the organisation and administration of many fundraising ventures.
David Hekelaar Secretary

After a triple bypass, I started exercising at the GCRA+ Kippie Lodge class in late 2003 and joined the GCRA+ Board in October, 2004. I have also exercised the GCRA+ Ellon and Oldmeldrum classes. Since retiring for the second time in 2006 and moving to Tarves, my wife describes me as a compulsive volunteer. I have served on many voluntary Boards, including the Aberdeenshire Health & Social Care Partnership and Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, and both appointments have been advantageous to GCRA+.
David Pringle Committee

I have attended the GCRA+ Mintlaw class since 2012 after having a double heart valve repair in December 2011. I was referred by the nurse and physiotherapist after completing Rehabilitation Phase 1 & 2 in Peterhead. I was asked to join the Board by a member of the Board who was leaving the area to move to Fife. I have not regretted joining and I have enjoyed being involved with the Board, which has expanded its class network.