Education programmes in Sefton that support people living with diabetes are the first in Merseyside to be recognised by a nationally respected institute in time for Diabetes Week 2019.

The two patient education programmes offered by NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG are Diabetes and You, which helps educate people who have recently been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and Diabetes and More, which focuses on supporting those who have been living with diabetes for more than twelve months.

Dr Nigel Taylor, diabetes lead for NHS South Sefton CCG, said: “Our diabetes programmes consist of two, two and a half hour sessions, and are run by a team of diabetes specialist nurses, dietitians and podiatrists.

“Both of these diabetes programmes are incredibly valuable to the people of Sefton. Not only do they support people living with Type 2 diabetes, these programmes also support their carers and family members.”

Following a review by the Quality Institute for Self Management Education & Training (QISMET), the Diabetes and You and Diabetes and More programmes have gained accreditation for their high quality service and effectiveness. QISMET is an independent not-for-profit body that supports self-management providers and commissioners to achieve the highest possible quality service for people living with long-term health conditions.

Residents who have attended past programmes have found them highly beneficial, as this person explains:

 “I found the sessions very informative and will take on board the advice I have been given.”

Another former attendee said: “I was in a bit of denial because of the healthy diet and exercise elements but this has given me insight and really improved my knowledge.”

Dr Doug Callow, diabetes lead for NHS Southport and Formby CCG, said: “Diabetes Week is a great opportunity to learn how to manage your diabetes but of course we promote this all year round. These sessions will teach you about healthy eating, your medication, lifestyle advice and more. I would encourage anyone who has Type 2 diabetes to attend.”

The education sessions are held at a variety of locations and times across Sefton. If you would like to attend, you can request a referral from your GP or practice nurse, or you can refer yourself to one of the programmes by contacting the Diabetes Education Team. If you are registered with a GP in South Sefton you can call them on 01514754285.

Diabetes Week takes place from 10 June – 16 June 2019. For more information visit https://www.diabetes.org.uk/get_involved/diabetes-week

For more information on QISMET visit their website.