Hello and Welcome to the Summer Edition of Connected… with Diabetes UK Cymru!
We can’t believe it’s already the depths of summer although sometimes it may not feel like it! In this vibrant issue, we have plenty of exciting updates to share with you
During Prevention Week, we focused on raising awareness of our Know Your Risk tool which helps people understand their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In Volunteers Week, we shone a spotlight on the incredible efforts of our volunteers and the impactful work they are doing in their local communities.
We also attended Ali Fest, a fantastic fundraising event in North Wales that raised awareness of type 1 diabetes through music and community spirit The Cardiff Diabetes UK Group marked their 70th anniversary with a special celebration, reflecting on decades of dedication and support.
Diabetes Week was filled with memorable events, including a special reading of Dr Rose Stewart’s book ‘How to Manage a Mammoth’ on CBeebies Bedtime Stories. The Cwmbach Diabetes UK group also joined the Diabetes Week hype as they joined forces with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board to hold information stalls providing valuable resources and support
So, grab a cool drink, find a shady spot, and dive into all the latest news and stories in this summer edition of Connected! As always, please feel free to email Walespress@diabetes.org.uk with your story ideas or feedback.
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ThelatestDiabetesUKCymrulatestnews
TheOneMillionStepChallengebegins!
As summer arrives, thousands across the UK are stepping up for the One Million Step Challenge From July 1st to September 30th, participants aim to walk a million steps roughly 10,000 steps a day to boost their health and raise money for Diabetes UK
The funds raised will support research for new treatments, campaign for better care, and provide essential support for the many people juggling diabetes every day
It's not too late to join! Head to the Diabetes UK website to register You can take on the challenge solo or in a team, and use our free resources to track your progress and stay motivated We’d love to see your journey, so share your progress on social media using #OneMillionStepChallenge If you're in Wales, tag @DiabetesUKCymru!
Type2diabetes diagnosesamong under-40sinWales
increasesby22%
As part of Type 2 Prevention Week (May 20-26) we published a new report titled ‘Reverse the Trend - Reducing type 2 diabetes in young people’ Our report reveals there was an almost 40% increase in the number of people under the age of 40 living with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in the UK between 2016-17 and 2022-23 We estimate that there are now almost 168,000 people under 40 with the condition in the UK, a rise of more than 47,000 since 2016-17, and the figures should come as a ‘major wake-up call’ to policymakers
In Wales, the number of cases of people under 40 living with type 2 diabetes has risen by 22% to nearly 7,000 over the same period. It's also now clear that many thousands more young adults are likely to be living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, after a recent report by the Office for National Statistics estimated that 50% of those aged 16-44 with type 2 diabetes hadn’t yet received a diagnosis.
In Wales, we encourage the Welsh Government to continue to improve food environments through its Healthy Weight Healthy Wales strategy, and to invest to ensure the long-term sustainability of the All Wales Diabetes Prevention Programme, which targets and gives support to those most at risk of developing diabetes
We are urging people to check their risk of the condition by using our free, online Know Your Risk tool It takes just a few minutes to complete and advises you on your risk and suggests next steps to help reduce your risk For more information about the signs and symptoms of all types of diabetes visit diabetes.org.uk
DiabetesUK ProfessionalConference withTogetherType1!
In April, the Diabetes UK Professional Conference (DUKPC) opened its doors for three days of non-stop science and innovation. Our Young Leader, Gareth, had a front-row seat at the event. Here’s what he had to say about his experience:
"Being invited to DUKPC was a massive opportunity for me Meeting other young leaders from all over the UK and connecting with Steve and Sally Morgan was incredible. What I enjoyed most about the conference was the immense support and encouragement each young leader brought, and how well we all worked together."
Head to our website for DUKPC research highlights.
FarewelltoMichelle,our inspirationalyouthworker
This month, we said goodbye to our fantastic Youth Worker, Michelle, who has left Diabetes UK to start an exciting new chapter in her career. Michelle's dedication and support have been incredible, and she will be hugely missed by all her colleagues and the young leaders she’s inspired.
In the wake of Michelle’s departure, we’ve been actively recruiting for a new Youth Worker We were thrilled to have young leaders Divya, Catrin, and Gareth join us on the interview panel, bringing their valuable insights and perspectives to the process.
Stay tuned for more updates!
The Health and Social Care Committee is holding an inquiry into the prevention of ill health – obesity
The inquiry is covering:
Gaps/areas for improvement in existing policy and the current regulatory framework (including in relation to food/nutrition and physical activity);
The impact of social and commercial determinants on obesity;
Interventions in pregnancy and early childhood to promote good nutrition and prevent obesity;
The stigma and discrimination experienced by people who are overweight/obese;
People’s ability to access appropriate support and treatment services for obesity;
The relationship between obesity and mental health;
International examples of success (including potential applicability to the Welsh context)
The Obesity Alliance Cymru has submitted a joint response
Empowering Change
Impactful
Celebrating Success at our first-ever Wellness Walk Cardiff!
On Sunday 16 June, we were thrilled to bring the first-ever Wellness Walk to Cardiff! The day was a resounding success, drawing 523 enthusiastic walkers and raising over £30,000 for Diabetes UK. Blessed with blue skies and sunshine, the event turned out to be a perfect day for an 8-mile journey around our beloved city
Walkers enjoyed Cardiff’s rich culture, history, and incredible landmarks around the capital city Starting and finishing at Pontcanna Fields, participants took in sights such as the Norwegian Church, the Wales Millennium Centre, the Principality Stadium, and the Taff Trail Each landmark added a unique flavour to the walk, making it a memorable experience for all.
A special highlight of the day was the halfway station, where walkers were greeted by the uplifting tunes of the Gentle Rain Community Jazz band, led by Diabetes UK volunteer Rob Lee. The band provided a much-needed boost of energy and joy, keeping everyone's spirits high and adding a magical touch to the event
We are also deeply grateful to the numerous volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to make this event a success From handing out medals to cheering participants along the route, their support was invaluable
stories and fundraising
Their enthusiasm and encouragement were crucial in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all walkers.
To all the participants, supporters, and volunteers who contributed to this wonderful day, thank you for making the Wellness Walk Cardiff an unforgettable event Your generosity and community spirit have made a significant impact, and we look forward to many more successful events in the future
If you fancy joining the fun and walking for a happier, healthier future, we have another three Wellness Walks taking place across the UK this summer Head to our website for more information.
On Saturday the 6th of July, the vibrant sounds of Ali Fest filled the air in North Wales, bringing together the community to celebrate the life of Alastair Thomas, a talented musician who tragically died from Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). The event was planned by his mother, Dee and his closest family and friends, to honour his memory and raise awareness of type 1 diabetes and DKA
The event featured music from Flint Guitar School, Monkey Wrench, Muddy Elephant, Royle Breach and many more! The atmosphere was electric, filled with love, remembrance, and a shared commitment to raising awareness about type 1 diabetes. Ali’s mother, Dee spoke movingly about her son’s life and the importance of understanding and managing diabetes, hoping to prevent other families from e i i h a profound loss
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Honouring a Talented Musician and Raising Awareness for Type 1 Diabetes
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ali’s family and friends for their incredible strength and dedication in organising Ali Fest. Their efforts have brought much-needed attention to type 1 diabetes and honored Ali's legacy in the most fitting way. To all the musicians who performed and the people who attended and supported the event, thank you for making Ali Fest a remarkable success.
Ali’s spirit and passion for music live on through the artists he inspired and the awareness raised at Ali Fest
Read more about Ali’s story on our website.
Jonathanandfriends ConquertheWelshThreepeaks
In June, Jonathan from Barry and his friends Rhys and Sam took on the Welsh Three Peaks challenge and raised over £1,000 for Diabetes UK
Jonathan undertook this challenge to raise money for a cause close to his heart, as his brother Josh has been living with type 1 diabetes for over 10 years. He also wanted to spread awareness about the signs of type 1 diabetes to help others recognise the symptoms early.
Jonathanshared,“I’veseenfirsthandthelife-changingeffectsdiabeteshashadonmy olderbrotheroverthelast10years.Hisdiabeteswasalmostmisdiagnosed,whichcould haveledtohislifebeingcutshort.”
Inspired by the Rewrite Peter’s Story campaign led by Beth Baldwin, who lost her son Peter to undiagnosed type 1 diabetes, Jonathan and his friends dedicated their challenge to Peter's memory as well.
Jonathan explained, “With Beth’s support, we wanted to do this challenge in remembrance of Peter Baldwin too We want to make sure children and parents are more aware of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes in hopes that it is detected sooner and treated quicker.”
Pushing themselves to the limit, Jonathan and his friends completed all three Welsh peaks in just 18 hours, overcoming numerous challenges along the way
cheersto70years
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the Cardiff Diabetes UK Group
Back in May the Cardiff Diabetes UK group celebrated their 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of providing strength, guidance, and community for those living with diabetes The occasion was marked at Cardiff Golf Club with Diabetes UK Chief Executive, Colette Marshall, Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Bablin Molik and Professor Susan Wong Throughout the evening we looked back at the group's remarkable achievements over the years and heard some inspiring stories
A very exceptional lady called Ann who attended the celebration also attended the first-ever group meeting back in 1954 She was presented with a special award honoring her dedication and commitment to the group and the local community It was great to see support from Type 1 Grand Challenge Researcher, James Pearson, the Cwmbach Diabetes UK group, Diabetes UK Cymru National Director, Rachel Burr and lots more familiar faces! Whether you've been part of the group for years or are just joining, you're part of a legacy of support and friendship
Over the years they have raised over £100,000! This has enabled us to continue our work in diabetes research, education, awareness and support
A heartfelt thank you and congratulations go to all the members of the Cardiff Diabetes UK group: Rob Lee, Stephen Sims and Cheryl Sims, for their incredible hard work and dedication. Da iawn a diolch yn fawr!
Celebratinghighlights
Diabetesweekand activities
Every year on the second week in June we celebrate Diabetes Week. It’s our time to make some noise, raise awareness and shout about the things that matter to people with diabetes, and shine a light on what it’s like to live with day in, day out. This Diabetes Week, we had lots of exciting activities and events lined up. Here’s a roundup of some of the standout moments from the week:
Actor James Norton reads 'How to Manage a Mammoth' by Diabetes UK Clinical Champion Dr. Rose Stewart on CBeebies Bedtime Stories!
One of the highlights of Diabetes Week was actor James Norton reading a Welsh children’s book about managing diabetes on CBeebies Bedtime Stories. The 2021 book, titled How to Manage a Mammoth, was written by Dr. Rose Stewart, a Clinical Psychologist and Diabetes UK Clinical Champion The book is designed to help children with type 1 diabetes and their families understand and manage the condition
To celebrate we hosted a special watch party at the Diabetes UK Cymru office on Friday 14th of June with Dr Rose Stewart, NHS staff and children living with type 1 diabetes. Everyone came along in their favourite pyjamas to watch James bring Rose's book to life! After the episode aired Dr Rose Stewart joined James Norton on Instagram for a live chat all about how this started!
The Cwmbach Diabetes UK Group and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board join forces for Diabetes Week!
The Cwmbach Diabetes UK group played a crucial role during Diabetes Week by hosting information stalls at the Princess of Wales Hospital, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Kier Hardie, and Ysbyty Cwm Cynon These stalls provided valuable information and support for those living with diabetes, as well as their families and carers Attendees had the opportunity to speak with healthcare professionals, receive advice on managing their condition, and connect with others in the diabetes community.
A huge thank you goes out to our fantastic volunteers from the Cwmbach Diabetes UK Group, who dedicated their time and energy to making Diabetes Week 2024 a success We deeply appreciate the efforts of Allan, Gary, Martin, Sheila, Wendy, Ann, Jim, and Andrea, who were at Ysbyty Cwm Cynon all week providing support and information Your commitment and hard work have made a significant impact on our community, and we couldn't have
Wendy the group ch a great success, we were so pleased to have information stalls across all four sites. We want to thank Sarah Powell, Rhiannon Miskin and the Dietetic Students Jo Lloyd Jones, Julie Haycox from Paediatrics and Liz Burnell for Adult Services who provided advice and support throughout the week We also want to thank Sean Newton from Diabetes UK who provided the information booklets and supported the initiative And a final thank you goes to New Horizons Mental Health Charity who provided information in the Cynon area. This is a great example of working together with the Value-Based Healthcare Team, diabetes staff, and Diabetes UK volunteers. We look forward to working together for World Diabetes Day”
Your Diabetes Check-Ups Matter!
This year we also wanted to raise awareness of the regular checks you need when you live with diabetes. Many people are unsure about which checks they should be getting or may not feel they need them. However, these regular diabetes health checks are vital to keep you healthy and ensure you can continue living life to the fullest.
These checks include tests to check your average blood sugar levels, heart and kidney function, as well as check-ups on your eyes and feet The results will tell you and your healthcare team more about your diabetes, how it’s affecting your body and how to manage it.They can help spot signs of any changes early on, so you can get all the help and support you need.
To reach as many people as possible, we distributed "What Care to Expect" leaflets to over 700 pharmacies across Wales These leaflets provide essential information on the nine care processes and explain their importance in managing diabetes effectively.
You can help us raise awareness of these checks and why they’re so important by ordering or downloading our health checks posters and displaying them in your local community
Community Chronicles
Keeping you connected with our community
Volunteers Week: a Spotlight on Our incredible Volunteers
During Volunteers Week, we had the privilege of spotlighting the incredible individuals who generously donate their time and energy to Diabetes UK Their passion and commitment have been the cornerstone of our efforts to improve the lives of those affected by diabetes Throughout the week, we had meaningful conversations with several of our volunteers to understand what inspired them to support Diabetes UK. Their stories were not only diverse but also deeply inspiring, reflecting a shared commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
meetzara meetterry
Zara joined us as a volunteer back in September 2023 as a Live Well Champion which she described as being ‘super fun’. The Live Well Champion role involves raising awareness of diabetes and signposting people to support in their local community
We asked Zara what inspired her to volunteer with Diabetes UK, “I am studying Public Health looking specifically at Diabetes I also have a lot of friends and family around me who have type 2 diabetes so I have always found it fascinating The more I have studied it the more I have realised that it needs a multifaceted approach to help people with diabetes and I want to be apart of this ”
I have been volunteering for Diabetes UK for around 20 years I started as a general volunteer helping at events and running meetings After a few years, I decided to join the committee and become the Flintshire Group chairman Whilst in this role, I had great support from Diabetes UK Cymru ”
When asked what inspired him to volunteer, Terry shared: “I knew what it is like when being newly diagnosed. What do I do? What does it mean? Diabetes UK, especially the Wales team and the Flintshire group, provided me with the answers and help I needed, so I wanted to do the same for others!”
meetnicolaandanne
The dynamic duo behind the Neath Well-being Group! Nicola and Anne are from the Neath and Port Talbot area and have both lived with diabetes collective for over 47 years Nicola first approached Diabetes UK back in 2021 as she found there was little support in her local community for people living with type 1 diabetes In this time Anne also contacted Diabetes UK
Anne said “I wanted to volunteer because I had been retired for two years. Back in 2023 I had a chat with one of the volunteer managers who introduced me to Nicola and it all started from there. I’ve always worked in the community trying to help and support people and I just wanted to continue with that.”
Since they teamed up, they have created a group for people looking to improve their health and wellbeing. Anne said “We’ve given talks to Job Centres, Leisure Centres, and local walking groups who have all been really pleased with the information we have given them ”
To all our volunteers, we extend a heartfelt thank you. Your dedication has empowered us to continue our vital work, from funding innovative research to advocating for better healthcare policies. You are the backbone of our organisation, and your contributions are invaluable.
Whether you volunteer, support us financially, or help spread the word about our cause, your involvement makes a meaningful impact.
Together, we are creating a world where diabetes can do no harm.
Diabetes Dialogue
Navigating Policies for Better Care
DiabetesUKCymrucallsforurgentactionto supportchildrenwithtype1diabetesinwales
Two reports launched by the Senedd’s Children, Young People and Education Committee support what Diabetes UK Cymru has been saying for many years – children in Wales are not getting the care and support they need to participate fully in education.
The Committee found that a significant number of children's rights to education are being breached. Diabetes UK Cymru regularly hears reports from parents who must fight to get their child the care they need in Welsh schools, with many feeling their child is not being cared for adequately, often resorting to leaving paid work to manage their child’s condition, moving schools or taking on home education
Seven-year-old Toby Beasley from Rumney in Cardiff was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged 18 months Mum Zoe has been fighting for his care since he began school She’s had to move Toby’s school from Newport to Cardiff, home school for a period, and is now once again facing losing the support Toby needs to a lack of funding Zoe started a petition about this issue in 2023, which received 350 signatures, and contributed evidence to the Committee’s recent inquiry.
Zoe said: "I’m incredibly grateful to the committee for raising the concerns I’ve had for a long time about long time about the poor levels of provision and support for my Toby within the Welsh education system. We’ve had to remove my son Toby from his first primary school, battle with a second and are now considering home-schooling as a long-term solution due to the failure to meet his needs
“This failure has not only impacted Toby’s learning, but us as a family as I’ve had to give up work to make sure I’m there when Toby needs me It affects his ability to learn, play and develop at school and makes getting into a routine a challenge daily. My story is not just mine but that of many families in the same situation struggling with the lack of support and funding.”
Rachel Burr, Director of Diabetes UK Cymru, said: "As a charity, we are deeply concerned by the experiences outlined in these reports. These reports underscore the urgent need for reform to ensure no child is denied their right to a full and inclusive education
“No child should feel unsupported or face additional educational challenges due to a condition they live with The Welsh Government must hear the clear calls for reform and act quickly to address these serious gaps. Diabetes UK Cymru stands ready to work with the Welsh Government to ensure children living with Diabetes receive the care and support they need to thrive in the classroom."
Read the Senedd’s Children, Young People and Education Committee's reports.
