The dynamic, peer support and empowerment programme Together Type 1 – an initiative developed by Diabetes UK and funded by the Steve Morgan Foundation – has launched a new resource to support children and young people with type 1 diabetes in school.
‘My Type 1 Info’ is a personalised card containing information school staff may need to know about their diabetes – the tech being used, hypo treatments and so on. It folds down to the size of a credit card which is perfect for pupils to carry with them in their pocket, school bag, pencil case, or diabetes kit bag.
My Type 1 Info was developed by Lilly (Together Type 1 Youth Worker in the Midlands and East region) and Amelia (Together Type 1 Young Leader).
Amelia said: “We hope this resource will help school staff to really understand type 1 diabetes and how their pupils manage their condition.
“I know from meeting people at Together Type 1 events how tricky it can be to deal with diabetes in school sometimes. Having to explain to everyone why you need your phone on your desk, or why a device is beeping, can be embarrassing. I know some young people skip taking their insulin in school because they find it awkward. Having support from informed teachers and other staff can make all the difference.
“I really hope My Type 1 Info will help to reduce pupils’ anxiety around talking to new teachers about their diabetes. It can be filled out to explain what tech you are using, whether you are injecting insulin or using a pump, how to treat hypos and other aspects of staying on top of diabetes. There are also answers to common questions and facts about type 1 that teachers might not know.”
For further information or to request a My Type 1 Info card, please email type1youth@diabetes.org.uk.