A FREE event is to be held next month for people with Type 2 diabetes in Basingstoke

The event on May 1 at The Apollo Hotel, in Aldermaston Road, will offer the chance for people with the condition to learn how to maintain a healthy diet, reduce the risk of complications and become more confident in managing diabetes day-to-day.

There are more than 10,800 people diagnosed with diabetes in the Basingstoke area and around 90 per cent of these have Type 2.

The event, running from 9.30am to 4pm, is being organised by Diabetes UK and North Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

Dr Christian Chilcott, North Hampshire CCG’s Clinical lead for diabetes, said: “If you have diabetes, it’s very important to take care of yourself.

"If you manage your diabetes well, you are able to greatly reduce the risk of serious complications including blindness, lower limb amputations, kidney failure and stroke.

"These education events are a perfect way to provide you with more information to enable successful, supported self-management of your diabetes.

“Whether you are newly diagnosed or have had diabetes for some time, the Living with Diabetes Day is a great opportunity to meet and talk to health professionals and share experiences with other patients. We would warmly welcome anyone with Type 2 diabetes to come along and enjoy this day of sharing and learning.”

Jill Steaton, Diabetes UK’s regional head in the south east, who is giving a talk at the event, said: “We know living with Type 2 diabetes can be hard, so this event aims to help people think about how they manage their condition and what they could do differently.

"Hearing from health experts and other people with Type 2 diabetes can offer a fresh insight, which can help people take a transformational path to their healthiest self.

“Everyone’s journey is different, but better access to care, education and support can help people live well with Type 2 diabetes.”

The event is free and open to any adult living with Type 2 diabetes, or people who care for others with the condition.

Places are limited, to sign up at eventbrite.co.uk/e/living-with-diabetes-day-registration-57689032449 or call 01372 720148. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.