Our Trust is very proud of the work helping our patients manage their Type 2 diabetes* which has been attracting some fab feedback. (see attached cloud below)

We offer support based on the DESMOND model short for Diabetes Education and Self-Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed.

In Calderdale, DESMOND courses are delivered in a mixture of venues from community rooms at fire stations to local health centres as well as at the diabetes centre. Education is undertaken with groups of up to 10 people, with supporters being invited to attend such as relatives or friends.

The sessions are led by  two educators who are health professionals. At CHFT  our courses are facilitated by Dietitians and Podiatry colleagues. We have a team of 6 educators and deliver 30-48 courses per year depending upon demand. All DESMOND educators are required to undergo training and quality assurance to maintain their accreditation.

It is designed to support a person with diabetes to become the expert, by equipping and empowering them with the necessary skills and knowledge to enable them to manage their diabetes on a day to day basis.

Participants are referred to DESMOND by their primary health care team when newly-diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The DESMOND co-ordinator will book them on to either a full day or two half-day course.

A national curriculum is used which has been designed using up to date, evidence based information about the causes, effects and options for managing diabetes. The course is a mixture of theory and practical activities including food choices and activity.

For further information on DESMOND: www.desmond-project.org.uk

* Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body's cells don't react to insulin. This means glucose stays in the blood and isn't used as fuel for energy. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity and tends to be diagnosed in older people.