Diabetes  

Diabetes support in Essex is available to help people prevent type 2 diabetes, manage type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and improve their overall health and wellbeing. The NHS in Essex offers prevention programmes, treatment services, education, and specialist support to help you live well with diabetes.

Diabetes is a long-term condition that affects how your body uses glucose (sugar) for energy. This page explains how to reduce your risk, manage diabetes, and access local NHS diabetes support in Essex.

For detailed clinical information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, visit the NHS website:

• Type 1 diabetes
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• Diabetes symptoms and diagnosis

What is diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when your body cannot properly control blood glucose levels. This happens either because the body does not produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or does not use insulin effectively (type 2 diabetes).

Without treatment and regular monitoring, high blood glucose levels can increase the risk of complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. However, with the right diabetes support in Essex, many people live full and healthy lives.

Early diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care help reduce the risk of complications and improve long-term health outcomes.

Preventing type 2 diabetes and accessing diabetes support in Essex

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it. However, many people can reduce their risk by making small, sustainable lifestyle changes.

Ways to lower your risk include:

• Being physically active regularly
• Eating balanced meals and reducing sugary drinks and snacks
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Stopping smoking
• Reducing alcohol intake

You may be at higher risk of type 2 diabetes if you:

• Are aged over 40 (or over 25 if you are from a South Asian background)
• Have a family history of diabetes
• Are from a South Asian, Black African or Caribbean background
• Have high blood pressure
• Are overweight

If you are concerned about your risk, speak to your GP practice. They can assess your risk and refer you to appropriate diabetes support in Essex.

NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme in Essex

If you live in Essex and are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, your GP may refer you to the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.

This free programme provides practical support to help you:

• Improve your diet
• Increase physical activity
• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
• Make sustainable lifestyle changes

If your GP has sent you a letter confirming your risk, you can register for the programme in your local area:

These services form an important part of diabetes support in Essex and help prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes.

NHS Type 2 Diabetes Remission Programme

Some people with type 2 diabetes may be able to achieve remission. Remission means blood glucose levels return to a non-diabetic range without the need for diabetes medication.

The NHS Type 2 Diabetes Remission Programme supports eligible people to make intensive diet and lifestyle changes through a structured and medically supervised plan.

You may be eligible if:

• You were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within the last six years
• You meet specific clinical criteria
• Your GP or diabetes team confirms the programme is suitable for you

Your GP or diabetes team will discuss this option with you and arrange a referral if appropriate.

Technology and diabetes support in Essex for type 1 diabetes

People living with type 1 diabetes may be eligible for advanced technology to help manage their blood glucose levels.

Hybrid closed loop systems combine:

• A continuous glucose monitor (CGM)
• An insulin pump
• A computer algorithm that automatically adjusts insulin delivery

These systems can:

• Improve blood glucose control
• Reduce hypoglycaemia (hypos)
• Support daily diabetes management
• Improve quality of life

Your specialist diabetes team will assess your eligibility and discuss suitable options as part of your diabetes support in Essex.

For more information, visit the Diabetes UK website for guidance on diabetes technology and support.

Living well with diabetes and accessing support in Essex

Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, everyday actions can help you manage your condition and stay healthy. In addition, building healthy habits can improve your long-term health and wellbeing.

Healthy lifestyle

To help manage your diabetes:

• Eat regular, balanced meals including vegetables, fruit, wholegrains and lean protein
• Reduce sugary and high-fat foods
• Stay physically active in ways that suit your ability
• Take medication as prescribed
• Attend regular diabetes reviews and monitoring appointments

People with diabetes should attend annual reviews, including foot checks and eye screening, to help prevent complications.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with diabetes can affect your emotional wellbeing. For example, some people experience stress, anxiety or low mood when managing a long-term condition.

Support available as part of diabetes support in Essex may include:

• Talking therapies
• Diabetes education programmes
• Peer support groups
• Support for carers and families

If your mental health is affecting your diabetes management, speak to your GP, diabetes nurse, or care team. They can refer you to appropriate support services.

How to access diabetes support in Essex

Your GP practice is your first point of contact for diabetes advice, monitoring, and referrals. They can help you access a full range of diabetes support in Essex.

This includes:

• Diabetes education courses
• Lifestyle and weight management programmes
• The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme
• The NHS Type 2 Diabetes Remission Programme
• Specialist diabetes services
• Technology assessments for type 1 diabetes

You can also speak to your local community pharmacy for advice on managing diabetes and medicines.

Frequently asked questions about diabetes support in Essex

Hybrid closed loop technology – frequently asked questions