Under the banner of #StrikeOutStigma, the campaign is calling for a shift in how diabetes is understood and discussed. Organisers say stigma can prevent people from getting the support they need. Some individuals may choose not to disclose their condition at work due to fear of discrimination, while others face unfair treatment when they do. For some, stigma can lead to hiding their condition altogether or even missing important healthcare appointments.
The effects go beyond emotional wellbeing. Evidence shows stigma can also have serious physical consequences, contributing to higher blood sugar levels, poorer-quality healthcare interactions and delays in accessing treatment – all of which can significantly affect long-term health outcomes.
Campaign leaders highlight that stigma can come from many sources, often unintentionally. It can arise through everyday interactions with friends, family, colleagues and the wider public, as well as within healthcare, education and workplace settings. Even well-meaning comments can reinforce harmful assumptions if people are unaware of their impact.
The campaign emphasises that tackling diabetes stigma will require collaboration and collective action. While changing deep-rooted attitudes may take time, simple changes in language and understanding can begin immediately.
By encouraging more informed and compassionate conversations, Diabetes Week aims to create a culture where people living with diabetes feel supported, understood and empowered to manage their condition without fear of judgement.
Throughout #DiabetesWeek, members of the Gloucestershire NHS Community Diabetes Service will be sharing short videos to raise awareness and share insights about living with diabetes. Keep an eye out and get involved.
About the Community Diabetes Service
The Community Diabetes Service supports people with type 2 diabetes to manage their condition effectively and improve their long-term health.
The service offers dedicated diabetes information sessions, alongside support from a specialist clinical team. Learning how to manage diabetes can make a significant difference, and everyone diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is encouraged to attend an information session.
These sessions are designed to help people better understand their condition and build the confidence needed for day-to-day management.
Sessions are led by a Diabetes Specialist and are available in a range of formats to suit individual needs. People can attend a face-to-face group session at a local venue, typically lasting two to three hours, or join an online session via Microsoft Teams. Evening online sessions are also available for added flexibility.
Diabetes information films
In this first video, Diabetes Patient Education Co-ordinator Hannah explains what diabetes is, breaking it down in a simple and easy-to-understand way.
