Turning the Tide on Diabetes:
At the Initiative for Social Entrepreneurs (iSE), we believe knowledge is power. When women are given the right tools, they don’t just change their own lives, they change their families, their communities, and future generations. That’s why we are proud to launch the Women’s Diabetes Wellbeing Programme, an action driven initiative designed to educate, uplift, and empower women at risk of diabetes.
This six month programme, funded by the National Lottery, is more than just raising awareness. It’s about real change, equipping women with the knowledge, support, and opportunities they need to prevent diabetes and take control of their wellbeing. Through expert led education, hands on lifestyle support, and entrepreneurial training, we are giving women the tools to build healthier futures for themselves and those around them.
The Growing Threat of Type 2 Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the most urgent health crises facing women today. Every year in England, around 30,000 women develop gestational diabetes (GDM), and up to 50% of them will go on to develop Type 2 diabetes within five years (NHS,2024) With 90% of all diabetes cases being Type 2, prevention is crucial.
Yet, for many women, the warning signs go unnoticed. Diabetes often develops silently, without clear symptoms, until it has already begun causing serious damage to the body. By the time many women are diagnosed, they may already be experiencing complications like heart disease, kidney failure, and vision loss. This is why early intervention is not just important, it is life changing.
Some of the biggest risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include:
- Age — While risk increases over 40 for white individuals, those of African-Caribbean, Black African, Chinese, or South Asian descent face increased risk as early as 25.
- Family History — You are two to six times more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes if a close relative has it.
- Health Factors — High blood pressure, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle all increase your risk.
- Additional Risks — Conditions like PCOS and even mental health challenges can also contribute.
However, risk does not mean inevitability. According to the NHS, lifestyle interventions can reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes by up to 37%, proving that with the right knowledge and resources, we can change the trajectory of women’s health (NHS,2024)
A Holistic Approach: Education, Support, and Opportunity
The Women’s Diabetes Wellbeing Programme is designed to address the root causes of diabetes and provide women with the skills they need to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Through our partnership with NHS Diabetic Specialists and Diabetes UK Midlands, we are offering:
- In depth Health Education
Our expert-led sessions will break down the complexities of diabetes, teaching women how to identify their risks and take action before it’s too late. When you understand your body, you can take charge of your future.
- Practical Lifestyle Support
From meal planning to Tai Chi, our hands-on workshops will provide real, actionable steps for women to integrate into their daily lives. Every participant will also receive a free ‘Try at Home’ diabetes prevention kit to kick-start their journey toward better health.
- Entrepreneurial Training
We believe that economic empowerment is a vital part of health and well-being. That is why our programme also offers business training, helping women develop skills to create financial security for themselves and their families.
- Family Focused Engagement
Diabetes doesn’t just affect one person, it affects entire families. Our mother child sessions will encourage families to build healthy habits together, creating a ripple effect of positive change across generations.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
For too long, diabetes has been a silent threat, especially in underserved communities. Many women don’t realise they are at risk until it’s too late but it doesn’t have to be this way.
Through this programme, iSE is closing the gap between risk and diagnosis. Our free NHS Health Checks and ‘Know Your Risk’ assessments will give women the opportunity to take control of their health before it’s too late.
Be a Diabetes Champion
We are calling on women across East Birmingham and beyond to take control of their health, their futures, and their communities. This is a movement where women uplift each other, support each other, and inspire each other to take back control.
By joining the Women’s Diabetes Wellbeing Programme, you are not just signing up for classes…you are stepping into a community of strong, motivated women who are ready to create change.
Visit our website today to secure your spot and be part of a healthier, stronger future. Together, we can turn the tide on diabetes, one woman at a time.
As Drew Currie, CEO of iSE, often reminds us
“As we invest in the health and empowerment of women, we lay the foundation for stronger communities and a brighter future. Our Women’s Diabetes Wellbeing Programme is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together to support one another. Come along and be the change that drives a healthier, more resilient society.”