Innovation, education and a specialist team at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust are empowering thousands of people to manage their diabetes more effectively than ever before.
The Trust’s Adult Diabetes Service has supported 150 patients with the highest clinical need to start using hybrid closed loop systems, also known as ‘artificial pancreas’ technology, and has more than 1,200 contacts with patients every month.
Hybrid closed loop systems automatically deliver insulin in response to continuously monitored glucose levels, helping people with type 1 diabetes achieve greater stability and quality of life.
In mid and south Essex (MSE), diabetes teams are working collaboratively to identify and prioritise those with the greatest clinical need, ensuring fair and effective access to this life-changing technology.
To mark World Diabetes Day (14 November), the Adult Diabetes Service is celebrating significant progress in supporting people living with diabetes, including running a wide range of education initiatives designed to empower patients to manage their condition effectively.
In 2024 alone, over 800 people completed an MSE SWEET Type 2 education programme delivered by EPUT, while 100 people with type 1 diabetes attended specialist support and education sessions in 2025.
Since April 2025, the team has made over 8,000 patient contacts, averaging around 1,200 each month, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to accessible, patient-centred care.
“Education and innovation are central to helping people live well with diabetes and our team’s specialist nurses, dietitians and consultants offer tailored advice and care to help people understand their diabetes, manage blood glucose levels, and reduce the risk of complications,” said Emma Day, Clinical Lead for Adult Diabetes Services.
“We’re proud of the progress made so far and remain committed to expanding access to new technologies and learning opportunities for everyone affected by diabetes in our community.
“As the number of people living with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes continues to rise locally and nationally, we encourage early engagement with services, regular check-ups, and participation in structured education to promote lifelong health and wellbeing,” said Emma.
Diabetes is one of the most common long-term health conditions, affecting millions of people across the UK. Locally, we continue to see rising numbers of people diagnosed with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, making education and early support more important than ever.
The Adult Diabetes Service provides a range of services, including specialist clinics, structured education programmes, and ongoing support to help individuals manage their condition and live well.
The service continues to expand its range of educational offerings for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Courses offered in 2026 include:
- Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes Course: A three-hour session introducing key principles of diabetes management.
- DAFNE (Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating): A comprehensive course, offered face-to-face or remotely, led by four qualified DAFNE educators.
- Carbohydrate Counting for Type 1 Diabetes: A practical refresher and skills update for managing carbohydrate intake.
- Type 1 Diabetes and Menopause: Supporting women in managing hormonal and glucose changes during menopause.
- Type 1 Diabetes and Illness Management: Guidance for managing blood glucose and insulin needs during illness.
- MSE Type 2 SWEET Programme: Structured education for newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients, helping build knowledge, confidence, and long-term self-management skills.
Courses are held primarily at the Hawthorn Centre in Rochford, with some sessions offered remotely. To book a course or find out more, email [email protected].
Whether you have diabetes, are at risk, or care for someone who does, support is available.