ANYONE who has ever been seriously ill knows the stress that goes hand in hand with their condition.

That may be money worries or, for people who live alone, trying to cope with day to living.

Fortunately, most people will recover their health and return to their normal lives.

But people with long term illness face an ongoing series of problems which can become overwhelming.

Some may have to start claiming benefits or have to look for a house which better meets their needs.

That can be stressful enough for healthy individuals but can appear like an overwhelming obstacle for people who are struggling with their health.

Six years ago, the city council decided to step in and give them a helping hand and joined forces with the MacMillan Cancer Support.

Initially, the service worked with cancer patients but in recent years has expanded to help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary heart, disease, a stroke and cystic fibrosis.

The range of organisations to sign up has also grown to include the health board, pension and carers services, Heart and Stroke Scotland, Glasgow Housing Association, Job Centre Plus, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Glasgow's Advice and Information Network.

Since 2009, 14,492 city residents have been referred to the Long Term Conditions and MacMillan Service.

Research shows half the population don't claim what they are entitled to because they don't know where to start.

But the city council led service has experts on hand and so far has helped people claim more than £37million in financial support

Easing money worries is not the only help on offer and many people have been helped to find new homes and the practical support they need to live their lives.

Recently, one man who was referred by hospital staff after an amputation, revealed he is unlikely to be alive today without the help he received.

Glasgow is the only city in Scotland to run such a comprehensive service and it is believed to be the only one in the UK.