People in the Fens who live with, or are affected by, diabetes will get the chance to have their say on how the condition is managed locally at a public event next month.

It comes after figures stating there are more than 44,000 people diagnosed with diabetes in Cambridgeshire.

The Diabetes Public Engagement event will give local people the opportunity to meet some of the charity’s eastern team. Healthcare professionals will also be on hand to give information about local diabetes care.

People will receive up-to-date information on the services available to support people living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

Peter Shorrick, Diabetes UK interim East of England head, said: “Getting the right advice and healthcare support is a vital part of reducing some of the complications associated with poorly-managed diabetes.

“For example, four out of five amputations could be prevented as 80 per cent begin as foot ulcers, which are largely avoidable and far more treatable if found early.

“I strongly urge anyone living with the condition, whether it’s Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, to attend this meeting.

“There will be the opportunity to find out about putting a care plan in place so they can discuss their condition with their healthcare professional in a way that puts them in the driving seat.

Representatives from local health care providers will be at the event. Attendees will get the chance to meet other people living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

Dr Mark Brookes, diabetes clinical lead at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough CCG, said: “We are keen to hear your thoughts and views on local diabetes services, whether you have diabetes yourself, or someone you care for is affected.

“Also if you’ve always wanted to find out more local diabetes care then please come along to this event.

“We work closely with all our local NHS partners but we want to hear from the public too.

Diabetes UK and NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are jointly hosting the event on Wednesday April 25, at March Town Hall, Market Place, March, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

To book a place visit www.fens-diabetes-engagement.eventbrite.co.uk or contact the Diabetes UK Eastern team at eastern@diabetes.org.uk or 01376 501390.