Update from Diabetes UK

Diabetes UK recognises this is still a worrying time for everyone living with diabetes and these times of shielding and social distancing can make people feel isolated, so we have created a North of England Diabetes UK Facebook support group.

This has come about in response to people from the region contacting us as a regional team for information and support during these difficult times.

This Facebook support group provides updates from key health care professionals (hcps) on local services and important messages on care and support as well as people sharing their experiences with hints and tips. It is a community of support and already has over 100 members. To keep the group feeling fresh and relevant to its members we would appreciate any interest from hcps and organisations who would like to work with us to produce content.

We understand how important Ramadan and Eid are for all our Muslim communities and yet this year it will be done differently with social distancing to make sure everyone is safe and remains healthy. Our dedicated Ramadan advice on our website provides information on safe fasting and diabetes including a factsheet on religious fasting

We have also created a new Staying at home and managing diabetes guide that can be ordered for free on our web shop

Diabetes UK is working hard to adapt and support people living with diabetes, but we know that we don’t always get things right. To help inform our work we’re carrying out an anonymous survey to gather insight into the issues people are facing at the moment.

By completing the Diabetes UK survey we can learn how best to support people living with diabetes during this difficult time.

The Diabetes UK Helpline is still available for anyone who is worried about diabetes, our trained staff are available  Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm on  0345 123 2399 or email: helpline@diabetes.org.uk