The Stewartry Diabetes Support Group presented a cheque for £1000 to the Dalbeattie Diabetes Centre on Friday 15 January.
The funds will be used to test a new education programme designed to help people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The innovative Walking Away from Diabetes programme will start off in Dalbeattie with structured education and follow on activity sessions delivered by diabetes specialist nurse Jill Maciver, diabetes dietician Nicola Millar, local GP Sebastian Pflanz, and other health professionals.
Jill said: “We are delighted with this generous donation from the Stewartry Diabetes Support Group and we’ll put it to good use with the Walking Away from Diabetes programme. We have seen a dramatic rise in the number of people developing Type 2 diabetes and this has serious implications for their long term health and wellbeing. It also has consequences for the sustainability of the NHS.
“Walking Away from Diabetes is designed to educate people at risk of developing this condition about the benefits of physical activity, including its ability to significantly reduce the chances of becoming diabetic. We understand that it can be difficult to start exercising but this programme will show people how to make small changes that can improve and extend their lives.”
The Walking Away from Diabetes programme is planned to start on a trial basis in Dalbeattie in March. If it is successful the team will apply for funding for a regional roll out.
For further information on the programme please contact Jill Maciver by email at [email protected].
