History of the Diabetes Self-Help Group:
The Diabetes Self-Help was set up by Dr Sonal Bhavsar to offer help and support to diabetic patients, both socially and emotionally. She decided to set up a self-help group after a personal gestational diagnosis with Diabetes in 2004 and a history of diabetes in the family. With it being one of the most common conditions, she wanted to help reduce the stress factors within the community in Leicester – this is why the group was formed.
After several attempts to set up the group, the Manager of the Belgrave Library Mary Pringle offered the group a meeting place within the library premises. The group meetings began, twice a month on Saturdays.
Over time, the group expanded from a small group (5 people), to about 30 people. As the interest within the group grew, the meetings were then held once a week. These meetings consisted of group discussions, including weekly talks from health specialists and other professionals such as: Nurses, General Practitioners, Solicitors and Meditation Healers.
At present, the number of registered members consists of approximately 100!
Who can join
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If you are suffering from Diabetes Type 1 or Type 2
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If you are on a tablet or insulin
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If you are diagnosed with Borderline Diabetes
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If a family member carries Diabetes therefore, you are at high risk
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A carer of someone who is a Diabetic patient
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General public, who would like more information on Diabetes
What we do
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The aim is to share our personal experiences on diet, exercise and lifestyle in relation to Diabetes.
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We invite health professionals, who attend our group meetings and offer advice, information and guidance on health and looking after yourself.
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We discuss various different areas of health in the group meetings every week, such as: Diet, Stress, Exercising, Self-management.
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We carry out activities, both indoor and outdoors, such as: local trips, picnics. Also, social activities, such as ‘Jewellery making’ and educational, such as: learning about health and well-being.
Where we meet
DaysTime and Place
Wednesdays10:00 am - 11:30pm at the Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre, Rothley Street Leicester, LE4 6FL, Tel: 0116 222 1004
Saturdays10:30 am - 12:30pm at the Belgrave Library, 24 Cossington Street Leicester, LE4 6JD, Tel:0116 299 5500
Get involved!
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By offering your time or expertise by volunteering and helping us fundraise.
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Donating - We require donation to expand our service and grow, to make people aware of diabetes within the community.
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Suggestions in health events, sponsoring and marketing.
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