DESMOND

What is DESMOND?

DESMOND (Diabetes Education and Self-Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed) is an NHS-approved education programme designed to help adults living with Type 2 diabetes. It provides evidence-based information, practical guidance, and supportive group discussions that empower you to take control of your condition and make positive lifestyle changes. Delivered by trained healthcare educators, DESMOND can be attended face-to-face or through the MyDESMOND digital platform. Whichever works best for you.

Why Choose DESMOND?

DESMOND offers more than just information — it’s about helping you understand your diabetes and build lifelong self-management skills. Participants tell us they feel more confident, motivated, and supported after attending.

Here’s why DESMOND is a great choice:

• Evidence-based and trusted: Developed by the NHS and nationally accredited.
• Practical and relatable: Focuses on real-life skills and everyday choices around food, activity, and managing diabetes.
• Supportive group environment: Small, friendly sessions with up to around 10 people, led by two trained educators.
• Flexible delivery: Choose from in-person sessions or the self-paced MyDESMOND app.
• Free to attend: Provided as part of NHS structured diabetes education.

What It Involves

The DESMOND course helps you understand your diabetes and find what works best for you. It’s interactive, practical, and based on the latest clinical guidance.

During the course, you will:

• Take part in 6 hours of education, either in one full day or two half-days.
• Learn in a small group setting with two trained educators.
• Discuss key topics like:
  • Understanding how Type 2 diabetes affects your body.
  • The role of food, carbohydrates, and healthy eating.
  • How physical activity and small changes can make a big difference.
  • Monitoring results and understanding medications.
  • Managing emotions, stress, and goal-setting.
• Receive follow-on support through MyDESMOND, a digital tool offering ongoing learning and tracking.

Eligibility and Criteria

Most people living with Type 2 diabetes will be eligible to join DESMOND. The course is open to those who want to learn more about managing their condition in a positive, practical way.

You can usually take part if you:

• Are 18 years or older.
• Have a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes.
• Are either newly diagnosed (within the past 12 months) or have established diabetes.
• Are able to attend group sessions (in-person or online).

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, submit the referral form below. Our team will then review and place you on the most suitable programme.

How to Refer to DESMOND

Referring yourself is simple — you don’t need to go through your GP. Just complete our self-referral form at the bottom of this page.

We will review your details and contact your GP surgery.

If you’d rather be referred by your GP or practice nurse, they can also send your details to us directly.

Local DESMOND Team (Great Yarmouth & Waveney):

• 📞 Telephone: 01502 719904
• 📧 Email: nwicb.desmondbmc@nhs.net
• 🕒 Availability: Tuesday to Friday (answerphone available outside these hours)
• 💻 Website: You can find more details by following this link: https://www.desmond.nhs.uk/centre-posts/great-yarmouth-and-waveney

Prefer learning at your own pace? Ask us about MyDESMOND, the NHS-approved e-learning version of the course that you can complete online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)