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A new education programme for people living with type 1 diabetes is helping participants across Wirral manage their condition by building their confidence and providing emotional support.
The Wirral Type 1 Diabetes Structured Education programme, known as W1SE, was launched by Wirral University Teaching Hospital last year. The programme helps people develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to manage their diabetes and reduce the risk of long-term complications from the disease.
Early results have been positive alongside improvements in clinical measures; participants have reported increased confidence in managing their condition, as well as reductions in anxiety and diabetes-related distress.
Holly Braidwood, who works in the Ophthalmology Department at WUTH, was one of the first people to benefit from the programme after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes last year.
She said: "The course really helped me reset. It took me back to basics and helped me rebuild my confidence in managing my diabetes. It also made me feel part of a group of people who genuinely understand what living with type 1 diabetes is like. Sharing experiences and learning together gave me confidence and reassurance that I wasn't on my own."
Holly praised the team running the programme for the way they support patients through what can be a challenging emotional journey. She said: "The team were incredibly kind, empathetic and completely non-judgemental. They really understand the emotional side of a diagnosis like this, and create a space where you feel supported, not judged."
W1SE is delivered face-to-face at Arrowe Park and Clatterbridge hospitals. The course is run in small groups, encouraging people to discuss and learn together.
Sessions cover practical topics including carbohydrate counting, managing low and high blood glucose levels, exercise, eating out and alcohol. It also looks at how to manage sick days, which can have a significant impact on blood glucose levels and increase the risk of serious complications.
Diabetes specialist dietitians and nurses are the creators of the programme. They recognised the importance of providing education on how type 1 diabetes emotionally and physically affects sufferers.
Liz Waters, Therapy Manager at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, said: "Managing type 1 diabetes involves much more than understanding insulin doses and blood glucose levels. It can have a significant impact on a person's confidence, wellbeing and day-to-day life.
Ms. Waters said those who designed the programme wanted to give people practical measures to manage the condition, as well as support from others who have it.
The team is now seeking to add online support to the programme to continue learning after the course.
Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive, said: "W1SE is a wonderful example of our staff listening to patients and responding to their needs. By working together, they have created a programme that combines expert education with empathy, understanding and peer support."
