Diabetes education is a supportive session designed to help you understand your diabetes and what it means for you.
It’s not about being told what you’ve done wrong. It’s about learning, asking questions and feeling more confident managing your condition day to day and reducing the risk of future complications.
Yes. Diabetes education is not about blame or judgement. Educators understand that living with diabetes is complex, and there is no “perfect” way to manage it. Sessions are practical, realistic and focused on helping you make changes that feel right for you.
People who attend diabetes education are more likely to:
Education isn’t about doing everything perfectly, it’s about having the knowledge and support to make informed decisions.
No preparation is needed. Just bring yourself and any questions you already have.
Some people are asked to complete a short questionnaire beforehand. This helps the team understand how you’re feeling so the session can be as helpful as possible.
Feeling overwhelmed after a diabetes diagnosis is completely normal.
Education is usually offered within the first few months, but readiness matters. If you don’t feel able to attend straight away, speak to your healthcare professional – additional support or information beforehand may help you feel more comfortable.
Many people feel this way before attending and then find the session helpful in unexpected ways.
Education isn’t just about information. It’s about understanding why things matter, learning practical tips and feeling more confident in your choices over the long term.
Yes. Many people find it helpful to bring a partner, family member, or friend for support.
You’ll learn about:
There’s time to ask questions, share experiences if you want to, and learn from others – but you won’t be put on the spot and don’t have to speak if you’d prefer to listen.
Some sessions are delivered in person, while others are delivered online using Microsoft Teams. There is also the option to work through the course at your own page through an online learning platform – speak to one of the team to see if this is available in your area.
If you attend in person, there will usually be one educator and up to 14 people in the session. Online sessions are delivered live by an educator, with other people joining at the same time.
If the idea of a group worries you, you’re not alone, many people feel this way at first. Educators are experienced in creating a relaxed, respectful environment and there’s no pressure to contribute.
Everyone attending is living with diabetes, but people may be at different stages – newly diagnosed or living with diabetes for longer. Ages, backgrounds and experiences vary.
Many people find it reassuring to hear from others who understand what they’re going through. Carers, friends or family members of attendees may also be there for support.
Sessions are four hours long, with breaks included. You’re welcome to bring food and drink with you if you’d like. Everything you need is covered in one session.
Yes. Let the team know about any additional needs when booking. Where possible, sessions can be adapted or additional support arranged, including being delivered in multiple languages.
Yes. The team will do their best to make sessions accessible and comfortable for you. This may include accessible venues, adapted materials, or additional support. Please let us know what you need when booking.
Once we receive your referral, our team will contact you by phone, text, email, or letter to talk through your options and help you book a session that works for you.
We aim to offer a place on a session within around four weeks of referral – often sooner. You’ll usually be offered a choice of sessions where possible.
Just follow the instructions in the message you receive to confirm your place. We’ll also send a reminder shortly before the session to check everything is still okay.
That’s okay, plans change. If you’re unable to attend, please let us know so the place can be offered to someone else. We can also help you rebook for a different session in the future if you’d like.
Education doesn’t stop after one session. Some people choose to attend again in the future as a refresher, especially if their treatment or circumstances change.
We welcome feedback from everyone who attends, whether it’s something that worked well or something we could improve.
You can speak to a member of the team during or after your session, or get in touch by calling us on 0800 852 7460 or emailing [email protected]. Your feedback helps us improve the service for others.
If you’ve been referred, you’ll receive details about how to book or attend. If you have questions or feel unsure, that’s okay – reaching out is a good first step.
You don’t have to do this alone. Contact us on 0800 852 7460 or [email protected] for more information.