Volunteer LHWs were expected to

1. Attend LHW training

Three sessions (10.30 am – 3.30 pm) 1 day a week for 3 weeks (lunch and refreshments provided).

2. Undergo DBS

DBS check is a criminal record check.

3. Support patients newly referred for PR

Each LHW to support between four and eight patients over a period of 6 months.

4. Take part in a regular mentoring group

To attend at least four mentoring meetings in the course of the project.

5. Research activities

To record as instructed telephone and face-to-face interactions with patients and to participate in a research interview as part of the study evaluation.

Abbreviations: DBS, disclosure and barring check; LHWs, lay health workers; PR, pulmonary rehabilitation.