Type 2 diabetes sufferers targeted in new campaign

The aim of the campaign is to help identify some of the 10,000 people in Northern Ireland who have undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes, so creating a healthier future for people affected by diabetes or at risk of developing it.

As part of the partnership, launched in Lisnagelvin’s Tesco Superstore, customers are being invited to be risk assessed for Type 2 diabetes. There are currently 4,362 people in Londonderry living with diabetes, both Type 1 and Type 2, a figure that has seen an increase of 34 per cent in the past five years. It is also estimated that a further 10 per cent have the condition but do not know they have it.

Matt Lovell, Deputy Manager at Tesco Lisnagelvin Superstore, said: “We’re really proud to be raising awareness and funds for Diabetes UK, especially as the number of people in Derry living with diabetes has risen so much over the last few years.

“Our colleagues and customers have always been really supportive when it comes to our charity partnerships, so hopefully we can make a big difference with Diabetes UK and help some of the people living with the condition.”

Iain Foster, National Director for Diabetes UK in Northern Ireland, said: “We are extremely grateful that Tesco customers and staff in Derry will be raising thousands of pounds for people affected by or at risk of diabetes.

“The work they will be doing over the months ahead will make a real difference, not only because they’ll be helping to identify local people with undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes, but also by helping to ensure people get the support and care they need to have the best possible chance of a long and healthy life.”

As well as promoting risk assessments, as part of the partnership with Diabetes UK, Tesco colleagues will be raising thousands of pounds that will help fund pioneering research into a vaccine for Type 1 diabetes, the type not linked to lifestyle or weight, that offers real hope for thousands of children and adults across the globe for a future without this type of the condition.

The partnership will also provide information and advice to local people with Type 2 diabetes and will also fund a series of Living with Diabetes days that will help people newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes understand how to best manage their condition.

People in Londonderry can find out their risk of Type 2 diabetes by visiting www.diabetes.org.uk/riskscore. More information on how the partnership between Tesco and Diabetes UK will create a healthier future for people affected by diabetes or at risk of developing it can also be found at www.diabetes.org.uk/tesco.