New community diabetes consultation launched by Jewish Blind and Disabled

Jewish Blind and Disabled (JBD) has launched a new community consultation aimed at tackling the growing impact of type 2 diabetes, as the charity broadens its focus beyond supporting people living with disability to raising awareness of preventable health risks.

The charity, which has supported Jewish people living with sight loss and physical disability for almost 60 years, is seeking views from across the community through a new survey designed to better understand how individuals and organisations could be supported around diabetes education, prevention and management.

The initiative, launched in partnership with Jewish News, comes amid increasing concern about the long-term health effects linked to unmanaged type 2 diabetes, including vision loss, mobility issues and amputations.

As part of the consultation, JBD will also host two free information evenings in June, open to anyone interested in learning more about diabetes and its impact.

Community members do not need to have diabetes to take part in the survey or attend the events. JBD said it hopes to hear from people with a wide range of experiences, including those supporting family members or friends, as well as individuals interested in improving their own well-being.

Lisa Wimborne, Chief Executive of JBD, said: “Unmanaged type 2 diabetes can be a gateway to life-changing complications – including eye problems, as well as feet problems that can lead to amputations. JBD understand the human cost when preventable health issues become permanent impairment, which is why they feel they have a duty to not only support people once disability occurs, but to raise awareness, educate and focus more on prevention.

“By asking the community what they would find most helpful, we hope to develop a supportive initiative that helps people feel better informed, empowered and supported.”

The survey takes around five minutes to complete and is available online, while printed copies can also be requested directly by calling the charity on 020 8371 6611.

Over the coming months, Jewish News will work alongside JBD to explore the wider impact of type 2 diabetes within the community, including personal stories, practical guidance and information aimed at helping people better understand prevention and long-term health risks.