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Wales updates on Covid-19 information for people with diabetes

This page is specifically about guidance for people affected by diabetes living in Wales.

We will continue to share relevant information provided by the Welsh Government, NHS Wales (GIG Cymru), Public Health Wales and others on this page.

We also have more information and advice about how coronavirus (Covid-19) can affect people with diabetes, including what to do if you become unwell and what self-isolating and shielding mean. This is being updated regularly with new information as it becomes available.

On this page:

Coronavirus situation in Wales

Wales is currently at alert level 0.

This means that most restrictions have been lifted, but rules in Wales still differ to other parts of the UK. In Wales it is still mandatory to wear masks in health and care settings. Workplaces and premises open to the public must continue to do coronavirus risk assessments

Full guidance on coronavirus measures in Wales can be found on the Welsh Government website.

Continuing to wear masks wherever possible, maintaining social distancing, and washing your hands regularly will help to prevent the spread of infection.

Advice for people with diabetes

We strongly urge people with diabetes to get their vaccines when called, including booster vaccines which are being rolled out.

Diabetes UK Cymru has worked with Welsh Government to represent the concerns of people with diabetes. In response Welsh Government published additional guidance for those who were classed as clinically vulnerable, but not shielding. Current Welsh Government guidance on precautions to take to stay safe from coronavirus are the same for the whole population.

Thanks to your help in asking for better guidance, Welsh government have also developed an online risk assessment tool and an online support tool to help you find the support you need.

Advice for those who were shielding (clinically extremely vulnerable)

Welsh Government have paused shielding in Wales.

Individuals who are identified as being clinically extremely vulnerable should have received both doses of a coronavirus vaccine, and should soon receive their booster vaccine. You do not have to contact your healthcare professional to ask for the vaccine. As with the first two doses, patients will receive a letter with their appointment through the post.

If required, you can still access previous guidance under the Welsh Government's FAQs for clinically extremely vulnerable people.

If you still need support accessing food and you do not have anyone to help you, speak with your local council

If you're looking for help or support as a result of coronavirus, or for any other reason, you can give our confidential helpline a call. Our highly trained advisors can talk you through specialist information and provide advice on all aspects of living with diabetes. 

Work advice in Wales

There is no longer any requirement to work from home, however current advice in Wales is that working from home it still remains an effective public health control measure that can be used to minimise exposure to and spread of coronavirus, as well as other respiratory infections and other diseases.hat if you are able to work from home you should do so.

The Welsh government have published regulations for employees and employers during coronavirus. These regulations give employers additional obligations to ensure that your workplace is safe. There is also further, detailed guidance which outlines the measures employers and employees should be taking to reduce risks in different types of workplace. Depending on the sort of place in which you usually work, there may be specific guidance for you and your employer. We recommend people look for information that is relevant to them on the Welsh Government website.

Welsh Government have also confirmed to Diabetes UK Cymru that they expect employers to take individuals’ health conditions into consideration when undertaking the risk assessments required in light of coronavirus.

If you are unsure about what is safe for you to do, then you should talk to your local GP. 

If you need more advice, contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service, also known as ACAS. ACAS have a dedicated coronavirus webpage, or you can contact them on 0300 123 1100.

The Wales TUC have also launched an digital hotline for any worker who may wish to report coronavirus related health and safety concerns. This service is available to anyone, regardless or not of whether they are a member of a trade union.

Financial support in Wales

If you are looking for financial help to pay your bills because of coronacirus then there is a new Welsh Government advice outlining the different types of financial support that may be available to you. This includes the Discretionary Assistance Fund, which is aimed specifically at people who have:

  • lost their job
  • had a flood or fire in your home
  • applied for benefits and waiting for your first payment
  • been experiencing financial hardship.

Travelling to and around Wales

Travel around Wales is now allowed, as well as travel outside of Wales between nations across the UK and travel to foreign countries. Please see UK Government advice on foreign travel as there are still restrictions in place.

    Where to find more information in Wales

    Updates from the Welsh Government

    The Welsh government has a regular briefings which are held around midday and can be viewed online at any time or live on the Welsh government’s twitter account @WelshGovernment

    Updates from Public Health Wales

    Public Health Wales has published the Welsh Government’s latest coronavirus guidance..

    Updates from NHS Wales

    Many routine screening appointments, including foot appointments and retinopathy (eye) screening, were paused while NHS Wales focused all its resources on fighting coronavirus. Therefore, it is important to be extra careful in taking care of yourself at home, be aware of any new symptoms and contact your healthcare team if you have any concerns.

    We have raised concerns around the restarting of services for people with diabetes, urging Welsh Government to invest in diabetes services including diabetic eye-screening services.

    Looking after yourself

    We have lots of information to help you look after your yourself in our guide to diabetes. If you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, you're not alone. We've got lots of guidance on how to cope with certain emotions and how things like stress can affect your blood sugar levels. Our Learning Zone will help you get to grips with diabetes, both physically and mentally.

    And whether you'd prefer to chat to others on our online forum or give one of our helpline team a call, we're here to support you. You can always contact us directly here in Wales too.

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