A group has been set up to battle isolation for those living with diabetes in the Western Isles. 

Abigail Taylor

Isolation has been an issue for many throughout the pandemic and this group is offering online support to those suffering with diabetes as the Covid crisis continues.

Diabetes Scotland is encouraging people to sign up for their online community event ‘Cuppa and a Chat’, to hear more about what is on offer across the islands. 

Organisers of local diabetes support groups are inviting anyone living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, their families or carers to a virtual open-door session later this month.

The event will take place on Saturday 27th March 2021 and it will provide an opportunity to meet others living with the condition and hear more about support that is available.  

It  is being coordinated by charity Diabetes Scotland’s local group organisers in the Western Isles and aims to connect and support those living in isolated communities with much needed peer support, help and advice, from diagnosis and beyond.

Group organisers also say living in remote communities across the Western Isles can mean accessing support can be difficult, even without the limitations of Covid. 

Peer support can be a massive support for children with diabetes, their parents and individuals living with the condition. But with face-to-face events cancelled and meeting-up restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic this lifeline has been missing for many.

Charity groups are keen to reduce the isolation felt by sufferers by organising the event via zoom.

Paul Munro, one of the organisers of the Diabetes Scotland local groups, and who lives with type 2 diabetes and is insulin dependant, said: “It is important to have support available to families and people affected by diabetes as not only is the condition itself isolating, but we are also living in a more isolated area of Scotland. Covid has only added to this.

“We hope as many people will join us for peer support, sharing their experiences and helping one another. We can run online events as Covid continues, or as required, but hopefully we’ll be looking at being able to offer face-to-face events too.” 

All those with diabetes, their families, or carers, are being urged to attend the March event to talk about what support is needed across the islands.

Angela Mitchell, National Director of Diabetes Scotland said: “Living with diabetes can be challenging. That’s why the support offered by local groups is so valuable. It gives children living with type 1 diabetes and their families the chance to meet up and have fun but also a network of people to call on if you’re having a tough time and need to speak to someone who understands what you’re going through. 

For individuals living with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it’s no easier, so having someone to talk to can mean the world, especially in tough times like now.”

Those keen to attend the event should email Mhairi Macdonald, Volunteer Support Officer, on mhairi.macdonald@diabetes.org.uk before Wednesday 24 March to register their interest.