Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB
NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and Diabetes UK are hosting an online support event on Wednesday 4 October for people living with type 2 diabetes.
The Living Well with Diabetes event aims to help people better manage the condition, highlight the wide range of support available for diabetes and related issues like footcare, mental health and weight management.
In Nottingham and Nottinghamshire there are more than 73,000 registered diabetics aged 17 and over, which accounts for around 7.2% of the population. This is continuing to rise sharply and if the current rate of increase is maintained, it’s expected that 1 in 10 people will be diabetic by 2035.
But at the same time, due in part to the pandemic, the number of registered diabetics attending NHS Diabetes Education and Self-Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed (Desmond) sessions and having the regular recommended health checks has fallen.
Adam Gunby, Diabetes Project Officer at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB said: “Diabetes impacts thousands of people in our area and there is a lot of work to do both in terms of prevention and helping those diagnosed to manage their condition better.
“Diabetes can lead to a wide range of other serious health conditions, including strokes, nerve damage, foot problems, loss of vision, miscarriage and kidney problems. So, it’s vital that people living with diabetes take extra care to manage their condition.
“It is concerning that the number of diabetics accessing health checks and support has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, so we’re trying to reach out to people in different ways, including through online events.”
Diane Smith, Health Systems Engagement Manager (Midlands and East) at Diabetes UK added: “We know living with diabetes can be hard, so this event aims to help people think about how they manage their condition and get the support they need. Hearing from health experts may offer fresh insights into different aspects of care.
“Everyone’s journey is different. We know the last few years have been really challenging for so many and we want to make sure people have access to good care, education, and support to help them live well with diabetes.”
The Living Well with Diabetes online event is taking place on Wednesday 4 October, from 6.30 to 8.30pm. It will include advice covering a wide range of topics from both healthcare professionals and a lived experience from someone managing the condition.
To register please email midlands@diabetes.org.uk and you will be provided with a link to access the event.
A free information booklet, ‘What care to expect if you have type 2 diabetes’ is available from Diabetes UK at https://shop.diabetes.org.uk/collections/information-for-you/products/what-care-to-expect-if-you-have-type-2-diabetes
And more information about diabetes is available from the NHS website www.nhs.uk/conditions/diabetes/
