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This newly developed programme has been designed by people living with diabetes.
Its aim is to bring together small groups of people who have type 2 diabetes, within a structured framework but in an informal setting, to provide the opportunity for them to share their experiences of the day-to-day issues and challenges of those who live with diabetes.
Many new and excellent educational and lifestyle programmes have been developed for people with type 2 diabetes. These are overseen or managed by healthcare professionals. There is also a movement towards group consultations for people with long term health conditions such as diabetes.
This approach helps people to recognise and understand the important role that their lifestyle plays in the management of their condition and encourages and supports them to make the changes that will improve their health and reduce the risk of diabetes complications. However, making changes, and sustaining them, can be difficult. Living well with diabetes can be difficult.
How we’re different
The Diabetes Community Club harnesses the power of community. It provides the opportunity for people with diabetes to come together informally but within a well set out framework of the topic led sessions. It is run by volunteer hosts, without the need for healthcare professionals to participate. Each session focuses on a specific area important in diabetes management, encouraging people to freely discuss their challenges and feelings and the impact of each area on their lives.
The DCC can complement existing diabetes programmes by:
Providing peer to peer support:
Knowing you’re not alone; having an outlet for your thoughts, building confidence; learning more; talking about your emotions; empathy with your difficulties; celebrating your wins
Signposting to trusted healthcare information:
www.knowdiabetes.org.uk; www.diabetes.org.uk; www.nhs.uk/conditions/type-2-diabetes/;
Promoting a regular exercise routine:
www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/guide-to-tai-chi
An agile, digital plug-and-play approach
Our virtual working model, supported by relevant links in each session, allows volunteers from NHS GP practice patient participation groups, and potentially other community groups, to easily take on the role of hosting a Diabetes Community Club. This virtual model adapts very simply to face to face meetings in local settings when these are possible once again.
Story
The idea for the Diabetes Community Club is drawn from the success of existing programmes such as Weight Watchers and AA. The initial 8-week programme could form the basis for an ongoing ‘club’ where people with diabetes continue to meet up regularly and support each other to sustain their lifestyle changes and successfully manage their diabetes.
Ready to see how we can help you start your diabetes community club?
Click <HERE> for more details for your club to get started.
