Each year in June, the UK marks Diabetes Week — a vital time to raise awareness, celebrate progress, and focus on improving life for the millions of people affected by diabetes. Organised by Diabetes UK, this awareness week shines a spotlight on both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, aiming to encourage early diagnosis, support better self-management, and reduce stigma.
But Diabetes Week isn’t just about information — it’s about action. And one of your most accessible and trusted sources of support during this week — and all year round — is your local community pharmacy.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- What Diabetes Week is all about
- Why it matters more than ever in the UK
- The key role your pharmacy plays in diabetes care and prevention
- How you can use Diabetes Week to take control of your health
What Is Diabetes Week?
Diabetes Week is a national awareness campaign run by Diabetes UK every June. The week aims to:
- Raise awareness of the different types of diabetes
- Encourage early detection and diagnosis
- Share real-life stories from those living with diabetes
- Educate the public on prevention, especially for Type 2
- Promote access to support and care
In 2025, Diabetes Week runs from Monday 9th to Sunday 15th June. The theme this year is “See Diabetes Differently”, encouraging people to look beyond the condition and focus on individual stories, challenges, and successes.
Diabetes in the UK: Why It Matters
Diabetes is one of the UK’s most prevalent health conditions:
- Over 5 million people in the UK live with diabetes
- Around 90% have Type 2 diabetes, and 8% have Type 1
- An estimated 850,000 people are living with undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes
- Diabetes is a leading cause of sight loss, kidney failure, stroke, and heart disease
Despite its seriousness, many cases of Type 2 diabetes are preventable with lifestyle changes and early intervention — and that’s where community support becomes crucial.
The Role of Pharmacies in Diabetes Care
Your local pharmacy is one of the most accessible points in the NHS system. You don’t need an appointment to get professional health advice, and Village Pharmacy are open evenings and weekends.
Here’s how pharmacies support people with — or at risk of — diabetes:
1. Type 2 Diabetes Screening and Risk Assessment
Village Pharmacy across the UK offer Type 2 diabetes risk assessments using NHS tools. These checks are quick, free, and can help identify people who are at high risk but show no symptoms.
These may include:
- BMI and weight measurement
- Blood pressure check
- Lifestyle questions (diet, exercise, family history)
- Finger-prick blood glucose tests (in some pharmacies)
If results suggest you’re at risk, the pharmacist can refer you to your GP or the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
2. Support with Blood Glucose Monitoring
If you’re living with diabetes, regular blood glucose monitoring is key to managing your condition. Pharmacies can:
- Provide advice on how to use blood glucose meters correctly
- Recommend the best testing kits and supplies
- Assist with interpreting your readings
- Offer guidance on adjusting your lifestyle based on your results
Many people find that speaking with a pharmacist feels more informal and less rushed than at a GP appointment — which helps when you have questions or concerns.
3. Help with Medicines Management
Pharmacists are experts in medicines and can support you with:
- Understanding how and when to take your medication
- Managing side effects
- Reviewing how your medicines interact with others you’re taking
- Helping with insulin use and storage advice
If you’ve recently been prescribed a new medication for diabetes, ask your pharmacy about the New Medicine Service (NMS) — a free scheme that includes follow-up support to help you get the most out of your treatment.
4. Support for Long-Term Condition Reviews
If you take regular medication for diabetes, you may be eligible for a Structured Medication Review (SMR) through your GP — and your pharmacy team can help prepare for it by:
- Reviewing your current medicines
- Discussing concerns about adherence or side effects
- Suggesting alternative formulations (e.g., easier-to-swallow tablets, once-daily doses)
This collaborative approach ensures your treatment is not only effective but tailored to your lifestyle.
5. Lifestyle and Nutrition Advice
Pharmacists can give practical advice on the everyday choices that affect your blood sugar levels, including:
- How to eat a balanced, low-GI diet
- Tips for portion control and snacking
- Encouragement to stay physically active
- Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation
Some pharmacies offer weight loss and healthy eating programmes, or referrals to NHS lifestyle services.
6. Foot and Eye Health Guidance
People with diabetes are at increased risk of foot ulcers, nerve damage, and sight loss. Your pharmacist can:
- Offer foot care products and advice
- Remind you about annual diabetic eye screening
- Refer you to your GP or diabetic nurse if signs of complications arise
Taking preventative steps early can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Diabetes Support for Families and Carers
Diabetes doesn’t just affect individuals — it can impact the whole household. Pharmacies can also:
- Help parents manage children’s Type 1 diabetes medication and supplies
- Support carers in understanding the signs of hypo- or hyperglycaemia
- Advise on sick day rules and travel planning with diabetes
If you’re supporting someone with diabetes, your local pharmacist can be a friendly and approachable guide.
How to Get Involved in Diabetes Week
Whether you have diabetes yourself or simply want to raise awareness, there are plenty of ways to get involved:
- Visit your local pharmacy for a diabetes risk assessment
- Share your diabetes story to challenge stereotypes
- Wear blue during the week to show support
- Fundraise for Diabetes UK through a walk, run, or bake sale
- Encourage friends and family to learn their risk score using the Know Your Risk tool
Final Thoughts: Your Pharmacy Is Here for You
Diabetes Week is a powerful reminder that support is always close at hand — often just down the road at your local high street pharmacy.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, at risk, managing your condition long-term, or caring for someone who is, your pharmacist is:
- A trusted health advisor
- An expert in medicines
- A partner in your diabetes journey
So this Diabetes Week, why not stop in and ask a few questions? It could be the most important step you take towards better health.
