The London Regional Team held a very successful think-tank in November to push the case for more help for people living with diabetes on our home turf of Tower Hamlets.
Health professionals, charity workers, politicians and health bosses attended and the event generated new networks, awareness of what we can offer in terms of materials and a commitment to partnership working across the borough. The Diabetes UK CEO Chris Askew plus trustee Bob Swindell also lent their support to the event.
The meeting heard that in the 18-39 age range, Tower Hamlets has the highest number of people with type 2 diabetes in London. There are also many older people with multiple health conditions including diabetes in the borough.
As well as partnership working between them to tackle the health crisis, the group agreed that a local support group for people who live with diabetes in the borough would be a good step forward.
Roz Rosenblatt, Head of London Diabetes UK, said: “We are looking to find ways of reaching younger residents who may not think they should go to a doctor, even if they have symptoms of diabetes. At the same time we are striving to help older people diagnosed with diabetes and who may have other health problems.”
“We want to work with members of our local community to set up a group which, in turn, will help others people who live with diabetes. Our local group network is a fantastic success across London and we are determined to bring the same benefits to Tower Hamlets.”
“With the right support and access to information, families and carers can help people with diabetes avoid devastating complications, such as amputations, blindness, kidney failure and heart disease.”
Anyone interested in finding out more should contact the London Team at london@diabetes.org.uk, or call 020 7424 1116.
As well as local groups, Diabetes UK offers a range of support for people living with diabetes.