NHS Wales Enhances Diabetes Support With New Initiatives

NHS Wales is set to improve diabetes care for over 220,000 individuals living with Type 2 diabetes through a new comprehensive support package. This initiative follows recent research conducted by Public Health Wales, which identified key insights into how patients can be better supported in managing their condition.

The study, carried out by Beaufort Research between February and May 2025, involved in-depth discussions with 50 adults diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and 15 healthcare professionals providing care across Wales. The focus was on understanding the barriers and facilitators impacting patients’ engagement with healthcare services and self-management practices.

Research Insights and Patient Needs

The findings of the research reveal that while individuals with Type 2 diabetes are highly motivated to manage their health, they often struggle to absorb critical information, particularly at the time of diagnosis. Healthcare professionals expressed a desire to deliver consistent and empowering care but noted the need for better resources to support their efforts.

The research emphasizes several vital points: family and cultural support are crucial for effective diabetes management; emotional and psychological well-being significantly influences self-management success; and there is an underutilization of digital technology in healthcare. Patients frequently encounter difficulties accessing services, including issues with appointment availability and transportation.

Dr. Esther Mugweni, Deputy Head of Evaluation at Public Health Wales, remarked, “What struck us most was the strong commitment from both patients and healthcare professionals to work together to optimise outcomes. To effectively self-manage diabetes, a person needs tailor-made information and the opportunity to ask questions as needed.”

New Initiatives Under the Tackling Diabetes Together Programme

In response to these insights, the Tackling Diabetes Together Programme will develop four new initiatives aimed at strengthening the partnership between patients, their families, and healthcare professionals. David Taylor, Transformation Director at Public Health Wales, stated, “Diabetes without proper treatment destroys and shortens lives. But with the right care, support, and information, people with diabetes can live long and healthy lives.”

The programme aims to ensure that every person diagnosed in Wales receives foundational support from the outset. This will complement the existing All Wales Diabetes Prevention Programme, which has already reduced the risk of people with pre-diabetes progressing to diabetes by 23 percent.

Dr. Julia Platts, National Clinical Lead for Diabetes in Wales, highlighted the complexity of managing diabetes, noting that a person with the condition makes around 180 decisions daily regarding their self-care. She emphasized the necessity of accessible support that enables patients to feel confident in their decision-making processes regarding diet, activity, and medication management.

People managing diabetes independently spend approximately 8,757 hours annually on their condition compared to just three hours with healthcare providers. This statistic underscores the critical need for effective support systems that empower patients in their day-to-day management of diabetes.

The Tackling Diabetes Together Programme is a significant step towards improving health outcomes for individuals living with diabetes in Wales, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care and resources necessary to lead fulfilling lives.