EXTRA support is being made available to help young people in the region who have early onset type 2 diabetes.

Additional one-to-one reviews – alongside annual diabetic check-ups – are being offered to people in the 18 to 39 age range, together with the option of new medicines and treatments to better manage the condition.

The T2DAY programme – which includes support for blood sugar control and weight management, and guidance on reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels – is being delivered locally by West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board.

Bradford District and Craven is amongst areas across West Yorkshire to benefit from the initiative, which focuses on person-centred care, including mental health and peer support and physical activity.

Karen Kennedy, deputy director of the national diabetes programme at NHS England, says: "It’s so important that people aged between 18 and 39 years old with type 2 diabetes go to their GP for their additional review when contacted.

"The programme has the potential to benefit those, for example, who may become pregnant; having support to manage blood glucose levels and prepare for pregnancy greatly reduces the risk of any complications, supporting healthy parents and babies.

"It is wonderful to see the energy and enthusiasm that West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board has put into implementing the T2DAY initiative, which we expect will have tangible benefits on health outcomes for local people."

Hannah Beba, consultant pharmacist for the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership diabetes programme, welcomes the scheme.

She says: "Being young and living with type 2 diabetes can bring its challenges. We know that people who develop type 2 diabetes at younger ages have a higher risk of developing complications and it is important that where possible we try to address this sooner rather than later on in life when the risks are even greater. This is why GP practices across West Yorkshire are offering tailored reviews for young people aged 18-39.

"I am also delighted that as of this month, across West Yorkshire, we will be providing a one-to-one in-person NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission programme. This new 12-month initiative aims to help people, including those with young onset type 2 diabetes, diagnosed in the last six years to achieve remission. Supporting people to live a full and healthy life is a priority for us all."

For further information about the programme, email wyicb-wak.ltcpc.wy@nhs.net or go to wypartnership.co.uk/our-priorities/personalised-care/diabetes-network/diabetes-communication-resources/t2day