On this page, you will find some important sources of support for diabetes. However, if you cannot find what you are looking for, please feel free to ask our friendly team for some help in getting you to the right place.
This page is divided into 4 sections:
1. Online support for diabetes
2. Local support groups
3. Counselling and emotional support
4. Financial advice and support
ONLINE SUPPORT FOR DIABETES:
The Diabetes UK’s support forum is an online community where you can exchange knowledge and experiences with other people with diabetes.
LOCAL SUPPORT GROUPS:
If you wish to find a local support group for patients who are suffering from diabetes, you can search your location on this link for a list of groups in your area.
COUNSELLING AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT FOR DIABETES:
People with diabetes are recognised by the NHS as having an increased risk of depression. You should speak to your GP about your symptoms and see if they can refer you for counselling or an alternative method of therapy. Alternatively, you can contact the following:
British Association for Counselling
- The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
- Telephone number 0870 443 5252
Dedicated to the promotion of counselling and maintenance of standards and training and practice, providing information on training and lists of local counsellors on receipt of a S.A.E.
The Samaritans
Samaritans is a charity that prevents suicide through the power of connection.
HELPLINE:
• 116 123 (UK)
• 116 123 (ROI)
They are there around the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This number is FREE to call. You don’t have to be suicidal to call them
OR EMAIL: jo@samaritans.org
FINANCIAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT:
The Money Advice Service
For advice on benefits entitlement and financial matters, we recommend you seek further information via your local authority website for local support services.
Age UK benefits advice for older people
Age UK is for those over State Pension age and living in the area covered by the local branch. Some local branches of Age UK offer a free, confidential benefits advice service. Practical assistance to make sure you’re getting all the benefits to which you are entitled. They can provide advice by telephone, face-to-face, and home visits and help with completing forms.
- Telephone the Age UK Helpline: 0800 169 6565 (8am-7pm, 365 days a year)
Gingerbread Single Parent Helpline
Gingerbread provides advice and practical support for single parents, including advice on benefits and tax credits.
You can call free on 0808 802 0925 (Monday: 10am to 6pm, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10am to 4pm, Wednesday: 10am-1pm and 5pm-7pm)
Debt advice
If you’re worried about keeping up with debt repayments, there is lots of free, confidential help and advice available from StepChange.
Housing advice
If you have rent or mortgage arrears or you’re worried about losing your home, Shelter offers confidential advice on a range of housing issues.
• Shelter England
• Shelter Scotland
• Shelter Cymru
• Shelter Northern Ireland
For expert advice on diabetes-related compensation claims, get in touch with our specialist medical negligence team.