Diabetes awareness events

News from our partners Shropshire Rural Community Council (Shropshire RCC).

Residents in and around Whitchurch can find out more about how to manage diabetes at two awareness events at the Beechtree Community Centre on Claypit Street. 

The free diabetes awareness events organised by Shropshire RCC will run over two afternoon sessions, on Tuesday 14 May 2013 and Tuesday 21 May 2013 from 1.30pm to 4pm. 

The aim of the sessions is to raise awareness and to help people with diabetes, and families or carers who support someone who has the condition.

Daphne Simmons, preventative services team manager for Shropshire RCC, commented: 

“The team is piloting a new format for these events, running over two consecutive dates as a result of feedback from previous awareness days when the attendees told the team that they found the day very informative but a little long, and would prefer to have the wealth of information provided broken into two more manageable sessions.”  

In Shropshire alone, on average 100 people per month are newly diagnosed with diabetes. Many people find information about diabetes confusing, and do not realise that a few changes to their lifestyle can help them to manage their condition. 

Gerald Dakin, local Shropshire Councillor for Whitchurch South, said: 

“Diabetes is a chronic disease that has an impact on almost every aspect of life.  With the number of people in Shropshire being diagnosed with diabetes, we need to make sure that we get on top of the issue and help those who need it. 

“This is why events like the diabetes awareness sessions are so important.  These two events are free and an easy chance for people to find out more about all forms of diabetes for themselves.  I would urge as many people as possible to come along; it could really help to improve your health for the better.” 

The events will include presentations from health care professionals, including a nutritionist, eye-screener and podiatrist.  The programmes will include short demonstrations on the importance of foot care, exercise, a healthy diet, medicines management and eye-screening.  A member of Diabetes UK will explain how to set up a local self-help group. 

All the presenters are experts in their field and will be on hand to provide advice and answer any questions. 

If you have diabetes or if you care for someone who has the condition, please come along to the events.  Transport can be provided. 

Booking is essential.  To book one of the remaining places, phone Susie on 01743 342160 or email susie.hancock@shropshire-rcc.org.uk. 

Anyone in Shropshire who would like information and advice on living a healthy lifestyle can visit www.healthyshropshire.co.uk or call the Healthy Shropshire helpline on 0345 678 9025.  This number has been set up to provide a single point for people to go to for support with improving their health.   Advisers can help people looking to find out more about how they can be healthier, and prevent themselves or others from getting ill. 

Further information 

Shropshire Rural Community Council (Shropshire RCC)* is an independent charity established in November 1960 and operational from 1 April 1961.

Shropshire RCC are one of 38 Rural Community Councils operating throughout England funded by the Government, Shropshire Council and membership subscription. Additional support for project work comes from Shropshire Council, Charitable Trusts and donations.