Effects of COVID-19 pandemic revealed ahead of World Diabetes Day
The organisation, which is preparing to mark World Diabetes Day on Saturday (November 14), said the results of a survey run in October showed that a third of people in this group had difficulties managing their condition as result.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the lives of people living with diabetes – not least regarding their access to routine diabetes care. While the NHS understandably remains under significant pressure, and the ability to conduct appointments face to face is limited, we think people living with diabetes should also have access to the tools they need to self-manage their condition confidently.
Technology has a key role to play in this, but it needs to be rolled out much more widely because we know that for too many people with diabetes, accessing the right diabetes technology can be a real struggle. Often it’s simply a postcode lottery. In these times more than ever, that simply isn’t acceptable. You can find out more about our campaign and join our call for more funding for diabetes technology by visiting our website.
'World Diabetes Day'
On Saturday November 14, people are asked to get involved by committing to one small act, whether it’s sending a message of support or painting their nails blue.
For the fundraising event Nailing Diabetes supporters are asked to come together and paint their nails blue, share a photo on social media and make a donation, or raise funds to support the work of Diabetes UK.
Diabetes UK said: “This year hasn’t been an easy one – painting our nails blue will not only be a way of raising awareness of diabetes, but also of showing support for loved ones and thanking the people who’ve been there on the days they haven’t felt like they’re ‘nailing it’. Look out for lots of blue nails across our social media in November!”
Adele Graham, Manager for the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Health and Care Partnership‘s Diabetes Prevention Programme, said: “Perhaps go blue for the day – change your profile pic, exercise in blue, tie a blue ribbon in your hair, wear blue shoes or put the blue circle – the global symbol of diabetes – in your window. Shine a blue light – on your home, garden, office, building or landmark, call someone you know who might be affected by diabetes or organise a themed online activity with your family, friends or work colleagues.”
'COVID-19 advice'
Diabetes UK continues to update it website with advice for healthcare professionals on coronavirus (COVID-19) and diabetes and coronavirus advice page for people living with diabetes and their families. These pages are based on the most recent guidance available and also signpost to other relevant sources of support and information.
It also has some helpful information to help people staying at home and managing their diabetes and to help people cope with stress and other emotions. There is also a useful coronavirus thread on our online forum, where members are sharing information and experiences. People can follow and keep up to date on the North of England Diabetes UK Facebook support group, Diabetes UK Facebook and Twitter feeds.
For anyone not able to access face to face diabetes education or support during this time the Learning Zone is a good place to access simple information from the Diabetes UK clinical team, and sensible advice from people living with diabetes. People can also get help and support through the helpline by calling 0345 123 2399, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm or emailing helpline@diabetes.org.uk.
