Adjusting to the knowledge that you or a family member has diabetes takes time and it is often helpful to meet other people who have been through a similar situation. They can offer understanding, help and support at an important time. On these pages you can find out more about how you can support people living with diabetes.
Diabetes UK voluntary groups
Diabetes UK voluntary groups are support groups that offer people living with diabetes a chance to meet and share experiences with others. They are all run by volunteers and typically meet on a monthly basis, often with a speaker on a topic such as diet or exercise.
As well as providing support and information, voluntary groups also get involved in fundraising, campaigning to improve local diabetes services, planning social events and outings and running awareness-raising activities.
Care events
A Diabetes UK support holiday is packed with fun activities and adventure. It also offers a unique opportunity to be among people who understand. For many, it is the first step to managing their own diabetes.
Developing a positive attitude and establishing self-confidence in the management of diabetes is a key objective of the holidays.
The success of Diabetes UK’s holidays and weekends owes a lot to the staff who have offered their skills, time and expertise voluntarily over the years. If you have diabetes or an interest in diabetes, and believe you have the right skills and expertise that can be used on our events, we encourage you to apply.
Find out more about Diabetes UK Care events
Peer Support
The Diabetes UK Peer Support service connects people living with diabetes, including parents and carers, to specially trained volunteers who have first-hand experience of living with diabetes. It offers the opportunity to share personal experience and support in a private and confidential space.
If you are a good listener and have a minimum of three spare hours a week, you may be interested in becoming a Peer Support Volunteer. It’s a safe and secure service, and full training will be given. Because the service is telephone and email-based, this role can be undertaken in your own home. We're particularly keen to recruit people with Type 2 diabetes, and parents or carers of children with diabetes.
Find out more about Diabetes UK Peer Support.