Local diabetes support group aiming to get off the ground

A diabetes patient has set up a group aimed at helping raise awareness of diabetes and supporting local people diagnosed with the disease.
George McLaughli, who has lived with type 2 diabetes since 1999, decided to establish a diabetes support group for his local town of Washingto, in Tyne and Wear, after talking to his nurse .
“I was telling my nurse that I had joined Diabetes UK as a support member and she came up with the idea of having a support group for Washingto,” he said.
To get the group and running, local residents are being invited to attend an initial meeting at Washington Leisure Centre, The Galleries, on June 6 where they will have the opportunity to not only learn more about diabetes and how to better manage the condition, but also to meet other diabetes sufferers and share tips and experiences.
Expert advice and information about diabetes will also be provided by Dr Rahul Nayar, consultant diabetologist at Sunderland Royal Hospital .
“We are hoping enough people come forward so that we can set up a committee and hold regular meetings to help people with diabetes in the area,” George added.
Rose Lee-Gough, volunteer development officer for Diabetes UK Northern and Yorkshire, said: “Voluntary groups and volunteers are the backbone of our charity .
“They work tirelessly to increase awareness of diabetes, support local people with diabetes and raise vital funds to help us care for, connect with and campaign on behalf of people with, or at risk of developing, the condition.
“I wish George every success with getting a support group off the ground in Washington.”