Type-2 diabetes structured education – DESMOND

What we do

DESMOND stands for Diabetes Education and Self Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed. DESMOND is a curriculum-based structured education programme for people who have been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or who have been living with type 2 diabetes for a while.

To view a useful video click the following link: DESMOND- the Type 2 Diabetes support group.

DESMOND is delivered by two trained educators who will provide honest, up-to-date, evidence-based information about the causes, effects and options for managing your diabetes.

The DESMOND programme provides an informal and friendly atmosphere in which you will be able to share your experiences, thoughts and opinions about diabetes whilst learning how to manage it. During the programme, the following will be explored:

  • Your thoughts and feelings around your diabetes
  • Understanding diabetes and glucose: what happens in the body
  • Understanding the risk factors and complications associated with diabetes
  • Understanding more about monitoring and medication
  • How to take control - Food Choices - Physical Activity
  • Planning for the future

  • We currently offer DESMOND for patients up to 12 months post diagnosis and those with established diabetes who have not previously attended an education course.

    If you are interested in attending a DESMOND course, speak to your GP or practice nurse who will be able to assess your suitability for the programme, provide further information and make a referral.

    Can I refer myself to Desmond?
    We are now able to accept self-referrals, if you would like to refer yourself to the Desmond course, please complete this form and send to the address indicated.

    What people have said about DESMOND

    “I cannot remember a day in my life which was more valuable to me… …I am most grateful to the NHS for funding this project.”

    “I found the day informative, relaxed, informal and friendly. Both ladies were knowledgeable and approachable. Thank you.”

    “I felt the programme was very informative and put across with great clarity and friendliness. I now feel more able to manage my diabetes.”

    “It was a very good idea for my husband and I to attend together. We will now be able to support my husband together. We will make changes and benefit from the session.”

    “A good, well-presented session that reinforced the message that I can take control of my diabetes and manage the condition”

    "A good combination of medical facts and practical exercises."

    "Good opportunity to meet others with type 2."

    Click here to read a summary of John’s experience of attending one of our Desmond sessions.

    Preparing for the session

    Once you have agreed to attend a DESMOND session, you will receive a booklet on preparing for attending DESMOND. During the session you will also receive a booklet of information to complement the topics covered during the session. Groups consist of up to 10 participants and we encourage you to bring a partner or friend along with you.

    Click here to read about and watch a video of one participants experience of Desmond.

    Contact and location

    Contact details:

    Tel: 01926 600818 (Option 3)

    E-mail: desmond@swft.nhs.uk

    Dietetic Department
    George Eliot Hospital
    College Street
    Nuneaton
    CV10 7DJ

    Venue’s we deliver at (subject to change):

    North Warwickshire:

    • George Eliot Hospital, College Street, Nuneaton, CV10 7DJ
    • Hatters Space Community Centre, Upper Abbey Street, Nuneaton, CV11 1PT

    South Warwickshire:

    • The SYDNI Centre, Cottage Square, Sydenham, Leamington Spa, CV31 1PT
    • Stratford Hospital, Arden St, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6NX
    • The Gap Warwick, 39 Oakwood Grove, Warwick, CV34 5TD

    Video Sessions
    We also deliver group video sessions using a programme called Microsoft Teams. We will provide you with details of how to join via a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smart phone if you opt for this option.

    One to One
    If you feel a group session is not suitable for you, we can arrange a one-to-one appointment with a Registered Dietitian

    E-Learning
    We can also provide you with access to MyDESMOND if you are unable to attend an appointment or want access after attending to keep up to date.

    Referring patients

    EMIS referral self-populating form available, please contact the Dietetic department for a copy.

    Download a copy of our ‘Come and Meet DESMOND’ information sheet which can be handed out at point of referral.

    We accept referrals from GP practices for patients who meet our referral criteria.

    In order to prevent delays in processing of referrals, please ensure the referral form is completed in full. Please include up-to-date HbA1c and lipid results where available. These will be plotted by patients during the session in order to help them build their own health profile. If you wish to discuss a referral with us, please contact our Desmond coordinator.

    Completed referral forms can be sent to:

    DESMOND Admin

    Dietetic Department

    George Eliot Hospital

    College Street

    Nuneaton

    CV10 7DJ

    Please email: desmond@swft.nhs.uk

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