Who we are

GCRA+ is a health charity, which was founded in 2002 by three cardiac patients to establish and provide Phase IV Cardiac Rehabilitation exercise classes in Grampian, led by professionally trained specialist exercise instructors.

Around 2,500 people have directly benefitted from attending our specialist exercise classes. We currently lead a network of weekly 'Healthy Heart' & 'Strength & Balance' exercise classes at community venues throughout Aberdeen City & Aberdeenshire.

After piloting the effectiveness of our exercise classes for patients with a wider range of long term health conditions on behalf of NHS Grampian in 2013/14, a decision was made to open up our classes to people living with a range of long-term health conditions.

The range of long-term health conditions include:

Board of Directors

The charity is a Company Limited by Guarantee and managed by a voluntary Board of Directors who oversee the strategic direction and governance of the organisation.

Bert Lyon Chairman

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.
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.
Robert Paton Committee

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.
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.
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+.