23 May 2019
"Too often missing" Report Launch - Peer Support groups in South Lincolnshire
Written by Hayley Gedney and Keith Spurr (pictured)
The launch of the report “Too often missing” making emotional and psychological support routine in diabetes care, was held at the Houses of Parliament on 14 May.
There were about 100 delegates who were supporting the evidence that psychological support and treatment has a positive impact on managing an individual’s diabetes.
Peer support was recognised as a helpful source of support for those living with Diabetes. A Community Peer group has been established in Rutland area with members coming from Oakham, Uppingham and Stamford for about 4 years. We have recently established a Peer Group in Stamford and we are in the process of combining them into a Support Group.
Our aim is to establish a number of Peer Groups in South Lincolnshire and to this end we have started new groups in Spalding and Long Sutton. We have had support from Diabetes UK (Midlands), Lincolnshire CCG, local Medical Practices and Neighbourhood Teams.
By establishing these local groups our aim is to overcome the isolation that we all have in managing the condition. We are not on our own, but we can feel that way. By sharing our experiences, we help all participants to promote mental wellbeing. If people are finding it difficult, we can point people to where there are local services that can help.
From discussions we can learn from each other on how to manage their condition. We have established a close link with Lincoln University Diabetes Research Group. Researchers talk to the groups about their specific project and inform the group about specific aspects of the condition and many participants have been recruited into the project. This way people learn more about how to manage their condition and we can give feedback about the project and hopefully participate in the project.
We also have speakers from the local community, and this includes South Lincolnshire Neighbourhood Teams. If people are concerned about themselves and others, we have links to social prescribing and community nursing.
Find out more about the "It's Missing" campaign and read the full report.
