Diabetes Isle of Man, formerly the Manx Diabetic Group, today announced the charity’s new name and their aims and objectives for 2020.

This comes after the news in February that Freestyle Libre Flash Glucose technology would be available for all with Type 1 diabetes from April of this year.

The charity has been undergoing a revamp since it employed its first member of staff in June last year. Natasha Parry, who has Type 1 diabetes, was employed as the Development Manager;

‘It’s a really exciting time for the charity. Since coming on board in June, I’ve been working behind the scenes with numerous departments at Noble’s and liaising with other charities, formulating a strategy on how we can move forward and best help those affected by the condition.

We plan to hold regular support groups, deliver regular diabetes awareness talks to businesses on the Island and implement regular Know Your Risk of Type 2 events as we grow. Ultimately, we want to create a greater awareness of all types of diabetes locally and build a solid community for those with diabetes Island wide.’

Chairman of Diabetes IOM, Joanne Clague said, ‘By employing Natasha, who brings a wealth of expertise in her field as well as her experience of having diabetes, we have been able to work more closely with those on the front line. We’re examining where the needs are and how as a charity, we can support the 4,000 people and their families who live with type 1 and type 2 diabetes in the Isle of Man.’