Dieticians and diabetes nurses inspired

The next generation of diabetes leaders learned a new range of invaluable skills at a leadership programme staged at the Leicester Diabetes Centre (LDC).

More than 20 diabetes specialist nurses and dieticians attended the latest Tomorrow’s Leaders course on Thursday, September 15, and Friday, September 16.

It was a partnership between the LDC, Diabetes UK and the diabetes nursing group Trend-UK.

They learned about the principles behind being an effective leader and also how to identify and break down barriers to quality care.

Skills and confidence

The training aimed to also provide the delegates with the skills and confidence to become strong leaders to ensure that the best diabetes care is delivered in their area.

Professor Heather Daly, a diabetes nurse consultant from the LDC, said: “This conference is about inspiring the next generation of diabetes nurses and helping them to become local and national leaders of quality diabetes care.”

Carol Wardynes, a diabetes specialist nurse from Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It has been interesting learning the different styles of leadership and who to influence to make change.”

Claire Jenkins-Bassett, a dietician working for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, added: “I have learned that you don’t need to be in a position of authority or power to influence change, which is really useful.”

Beth Stout, senior healthcare engagement officer at Diabetes UK, said: “Diabetes specialist nurses and dieticians are absolutely integral to advancing diabetes care and this course gives them the skills they need to ensure people receive excellent diabetes care.”

The next programme takes place in January 2017. For more information about future courses, contact healthcare@diabetes.org.uk