Help and advice on diabetes control

Diabetes UK is holding a residential weekend events for families who have a child with diabetes and places are available for families from the Bedfordshire area.

Around 6.4% of Luton population have been diagnose with diabetes , at a cost of around £4.5million a year.

The weekend events are taking place in a variety of locations this year including Ashford, Kent, on 4- 6 April. They are open to families with children of all ages and offers information, advice and plenty of fun for those affected by diabetes, which is a lifelong condition.

During the weekends, parents attend relaxed, supportive and informative discussion groups, covering diabetes issues such as what care to expect; what annual reviews and appointments look like; and how to eat healthily. They will also have the opportunity for one-to-one time with Healthcare Professionals.  Children enjoy their own programme, which includes fun activities, a trip out, a tea party and educational sessions.

A maximum of 25 families can attend each event and places can fill up fast. The events cost £140 per participant aged 14 and over, and £90 per child under 14. All prices include accommodation, activities, trips out, food and snacks. There are various funding options available for families who cannot afford to pay.

Sharon Roberts, Eastern Regional Manager of Diabetes UK, said: “Our Family Events are a fantastic way to meet other children and families living with diabetes. Families get to share their experiences in an informal environment and are given a huge amount of support.

“The weekend gives parents and children the opportunity to gain the skills, confidence and knowledge to live with and self manage diabetes. It also provides families access to a healthcare team to discuss all aspects of the condition.”

There are around 29,000 children living with diabetes in the UK and most of them have Type 1 diabetes, which doesn’t have a cure and isn’t related to being overweight. Diabetes UK supports children with diabetes and their families by providing information and advice, by providing options to talk to a range of others affected by the condition, and by campaigning to ensure that all people with diabetes receive the care and support they need.

Other Family Events will be held this year in Telford, Shropshire (25-27 April), Ayr, Scotland (12-14 September) and Darlington, Co. Durham (26-28 September).

For more information go to www.diabetes.org.uk/careevents, email [email protected] or telephone 0345 123 2399.