Volunteer Spotlight - November 2025 - The Southport and Ormskirk Diabetes Support Group

Six months since it started, the Southport and Ormskirk Diabetes Support Group has grown from just six members to more than 20 regular attendees. “It’s grown wonderfully well – it’s amazing,” Peter says. “It’s so inspirational to see it grow the way it has.”

A community hub

The group meets at a welcoming local pub which is a community hub for many groups in the area. The pub, which Peter describes as “the perfect venue”, kindly offers the space free of charge. “The pub plays a big part. We don’t want to charge people a subscription,” says Linda, who supports Peter with running the group. “It would be off-putting for some people.” Members only pay for their own refreshments, making the group accessible to all. The group welcomes people of all different ages and experiences with diabetes.

Support and shared experiences

Meetings are informal and friendly. “When new people come in, we give them a chance to talk about their journey,” Peter explains. “That helps – people can be shy at first, but most people want to get things off their chest.” Linda agrees and adds: “We’re a very nurturing group. People use it for the time they need, and that’s fine. They can leave and come back.”

Linda, who worked in NHS Children’s Services for almost thirty years, brings a passion for the prevention and remission of type 2 diabetes. “I wanted to widen the reach of information, education and support” she says.

Highlights and success stories

Peter and Linda acknowledge that a large part of the group’s success has come from how well they work together. “We’re a good team” Peter says. “We talk all the time.”

Peter and Linda are particularly pleased with how the group supports people who are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Members share what has worked for them, and the information resources they’ve found helpful.

The group has already had some encouraging feedback from its members. One member shared:

“Congratulations to each and every one of you. You are fundamentally changing lives. I’ve lost over 10 kilograms; I feel heaps better and I’ve been able to start running again—and I’m 70 in January!”

Social events have also helped members bond. “I was hesitant about doing a social,” Linda admits, “but it went brilliantly.” The group are now planning at least two socials a year, balancing these with information sharing sessions on topics such as nutrition and exercise.

Reaching Out

The group is committed to tackling inequity, which is one of our ambitions at Diabetes UK. Linda recently volunteered at an event with the Southport African and Caribbean Heritage Association, sharing Diabetes UK resources tailored for African and Caribbean communities. “It was a lovely family event,” she recalls. “I handed out resources and said, ‘We’ve got this support group!’”

Looking Ahead

Peter and Linda would like to continue to grow the group and connect with other community groups in the area. 

Plans for 2026 include sessions focused on footcare, the benefits of movement and exercise, sharing stories from people living with diabetes and stress management.

Finally, what would they say to anyone thinking of joining the group? “Come and join us,” says Peter. “We’ll make you very welcome.” Linda adds “we are there to support everyone."

If you live in the Southport and Ormskirk area, you can find out more about the group on their webpage: Southport and Ormskirk Community Group.

If Peter and Linda have inspired you to volunteer, you can find out more about volunteering with us here.