A diabetes support group is a collection of people with diabetes, who regularly get together to share information, experiences and knowledge, therefore supporting each other and working together to improve each others quality of life.
In most instances, the support groups are led by members and not diabetes educators or other health professionals. being part of and receiving support from a member-run group is complementary to professional care, however it is not a replacement for it.
To access the complete list of WA support groups, click here. For more information on support groups in general, please contact us on (08) 9325 7699 or email info@diabeteswa.com.au.
Interested in starting your own support group but unsure of how to go about it? We've put together some information which may help you get started.
- Contact Kate Bourne on (08) 9325 7699 or email kate.bourne@diabeteswa.com.au. if you have a profile or aim of the group, be sure to let us know.
- Diabetes WA will get you going with some start up resources including a support group manual, a list of current support groups in wa, a database of potential guest speakers and information regarding diabetes.
- We will then put you in contact with current support group leaders so you can take the opportunity to visit other groups and see how they run.
- We will also put you in contact with your local NDSS sub agent so you can take the opportunity to promote your meetings and events via their network of clients living with diabetes
- Once your group is confirmed, you will be added to the official wa support group list, with the opportunity to promote your group on our website and in our magazine, Dialog.
- Joyce Bok has lived with type 1 diabetes for 9 years and she is currently travelling the world, while effectively managing her condition. She would love to provide support via email to people with type 1, particularly those newly diagnosed. You can contact her at jycbk@yahoo.com.au
- The North Metro support group has relocated to the Innaloo Sportsman Club, effective the first meeting of 2010.
- There is a new support group aimed at 18-30 year olds with type 1 diabetes; however they will happily involve type 1's of any age. Currently the group meets socially with the aim of linking people with type 1 together in perth. If you would like to find out more, contact Rachel Lamb at ywait@live.com.au