New research project: My Diabetes and Me

24 Apr 24

At HPFT we understand that people living with a learning disability are more likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes. We also see that sometimes they are less likely to have access to appropriate support that would help them to manage their condition meaning the diabetes often starts at a younger age and that it leads to other health problems such as heart or kidney disease.

A new research project, My Diabetes and Me, has started at HPFT to find the best way to help people living with diabetes and a learning disability.

Led by Professor Regi Alexander and Professor Laurence Taggart the research is sponsored by Ulster University and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research’s Health Technology Assessment Programme (NIHR-HTA).

The team have developed an education programme to teach people with learning disabilities who have type 2 diabetes how to look after themselves. They are now looking for people who have type 2 diabetes and a learning disability to help them test how well this programme works.

The study team is hopeful that by testing a specially designed education programme, they will be able to support those living with type 2 diabetes and learning disabilities with tailored lessons. The lessons will explain why managing diabetes, maintaining a healthier diet, and adding exercise could help people with a learning disability manage their health and stay healthier longer.

If you are an adult with mild/moderate learning disabilities diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes or are a carer for someone who would like to engage in a group education programme follow this link, or contact us at: hpft.mydiabetes-me@nhs.net. Additionally, if you would like to learn more about the continued work of the Research and Development team, or join the new Mental Health and Learning Disability Research Network, send an email to hpft.research@nhs.net to express your interest and a member of the team will follow up with you.

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New research project: My Diabetes and Me