Do You Know the Signs of Diabetes? Free Sessions in Cornwall for the Deaf Community

People who are deaf or have hearing loss will have the opportunity to learn more about type 2 diabetes at two free sessions in February, hosted at the Cornwall Deaf Community Centre in Camborne.

Organised by NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly in partnership with Healthy Cornwall, Diabetes UK, Hearing Loss Cornwall, and the Cornwall Deaf Community Centre, these sessions will be fully supported by British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters.

What Will Be Covered?

The sessions aim to provide crucial advice and support for those at risk, newly diagnosed, or living with type 2 diabetes. Family members and caregivers are also encouraged to attend. Topics will include:

• Recognising diabetes symptoms
• Steps to take if you think you may have diabetes
• Diet and exercise guidance
• Possible complications of diabetes
• Available support and resources
• Tips for living well with type 2 diabetes

When and Where?

📅 Thursday 13th February & Thursday 27th February 2025
🕐 1pm – 4pm
📍 Cornwall Deaf Community Centre, Camborne

Why Attend?

Chris Reid, chief medical officer for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board, highlighted the importance of these sessions, saying:

“Complications from diabetes can be very serious, and we really want to help people who are deaf or have hearing loss to understand the risks and action they can take to reduce their chance of becoming type 2 diabetic. If they are diabetic, they can find out more about the healthy steps they can take to reduce their risk of developing a number of serious health problems. I would really encourage local people to come along to these events, supported by British Sign Language interpreters, so they can learn more.”

Clare Greenwood from Hearing Loss Cornwall expressed support for the sessions, adding:

“We are really pleased that with our advice and support, these two tailored diabetic education events are being delivered for local deaf people or people with hearing loss to attend. The Cornwall Deaf Community Centre is a great venue and provides a range of support for people who are deaf, and we are pleased that they are hosting these events. All are welcome to attend, and if you know someone who is deaf or is interested in knowing more about diabetes, please encourage them to come along.”

These sessions provide a valuable opportunity for people with hearing loss to receive essential diabetes education in an accessible format. No registration is required—just turn up and take advantage of expert advice in a supportive environment.