Who we are and what we do

We are a team of experienced nurses with expertise in the care and treatment of diabetes.

We work in community nurse-led clinics, advising and supporting people living with diabetes.

We can:

• help you understand all you need to know about being newly diagnosed or having unstable type 1 diabetes
• help with ongoing management of type 2 diabetes
• advise how to help improve and maintain good diabetes control
• help to reduce persistent hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) or loss of hypoglycaemia symptoms (awareness)
• give advice about preventing a diabetes emergency
• plan a healthy pregnancy for people with diabetes and support you if you develop diabetes during pregnancy
• support people who require insulin therapy via a continuous pump
• support young adults transferring to our service
• provide education and support during a specific lifestyle period change.

Why have I been referred to the Adult Diabetes Specialist Nursing Service?

You have been referred to us because you need support to manage your diabetes or because you have recently been diagnosed with diabetes.

We are here to help you manage your condition.

Where are the clinics?

Nurse-lead clinics are held at a number of locations in east Kent and via phone or video call.

Home visits can be arranged for people who are housebound and are unable to leave home without specialist assistance. Please contact us to discuss your needs.

What will happen at my appointments?

Your first appointment will be with a diabetes specialist nurse, who will complete a full assessment.

We would like you to be fully involved when planning your care and setting goals. Helping you to self-manage your diabetes is key to improving your health.

We can work with you to identify any areas of your diabetes that you would like to change and agree a plan to help you achieve this.

The first appointment can take up to one hour.

Following appointments are up to 30 minutes and will be with the most suitable team member, depending on your requirements.

Diabetes education

We provide group education in Kent. You can learn more about managing your condition and share your experiences with others. If you would like to attend, please speak to your healthcare professional for more information.

They will be able to refer you.

DERIK

Diabetes Education and Revision in Kent is a half-day course for people with type 2 diabetes.

KAT1E

Kent Adult Type 1 Education is a four-day course for people with type 1 diabetes.