Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, recently paid a visit to Perton & District Diabetes Support (PADDS).
He took part in a session at Perton Library, where members meet once a month to support one another and share information about diabetes.
The group offers a varied programme of speakers and visiting guests, who advise members on all aspects of diabetes, from what it is to what they can do to improve their condition and how they can live healthier lives
The meeting that Gavin attended was on the topic of foot care. Diabetics need to be careful with their feet because of circulation problems and increased risk of infection.
A total of three million people in the UK have diabetes and the condition is the country’s biggest cause of lower limb amputation.
Gavin said: “I was extremely grateful to be invited to the meeting and to have the opportunity to speak with the members.
“The meeting was extremely illuminating. I definitely learnt a lot about diabetes and the challenges that many diabetics are forced to face on a daily basis. I am extremely glad this group exists and can help provide some extra support to diabetics living in the local area.”
PADDS recently received a £2500 grant from the Staffordshire County Council Community Wellbeing Fund.
The scheme, which currently has 70 members, is one of three diabetes support groups in the area. The other groups are based in Wolverhampton and Wednesfield.