The good news about diabetes is that treatments are very effective. The more you know about your condition, the more you can do to help yourself stay healthy; lead the sort of life you want to live, and to avoid the health problems associated with diabetes in later life.

The bad news is that there are currently about 1.4 million people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK and it is estimated that there are a further 1 million people not diagnosed.

Diabetes UK is the leading charity working for people with diabetes. It funds research, campaigns and helps people to live with the condition. The mission of Diabetes UK is to improve the lives of people with diabetes and to work towards a future without diabetes.

We’re fortunate to have a very dedicated Diabetes UK Voluntary Group active in our area. The Crewe & South Cheshire Voluntary Group is made up of diabetes sufferers and friends, working to raise funds to support research and to raise awareness of diabetes within the local population; and very successful fundraisers they are too.

Within the Crewe & South Cheshire Voluntary Group there is a wide understanding and experience of all aspects of diabetes. Its most important role is to share this information with the public so that more undiagnosed cases can be identified and treated.

Members of the medical profession and representatives from drugs and medical equipment suppliers are invited to address monthly meetings. Literature and advice is available on request. Currently 3 members of the local group are being trained to provide services to newly diagnosed patients. So much is done by the group to alleviate worry and improve quality of life of persons with diabetes.