Kick type 2 Diabetes Out. KIDOF project
KIDOF is a community football project using sport to promote diabetes prevention, healthy living, and community wellbeing.
- Play football
- Raise awareness
- Build healthier communities
Join the movement. Prevent diabetes together.
EmpowerHer Health Event was a success
PCREF session in Wolverhampton
Launching of Centre
The official launch of our Diabetes and Emotional Wellbeing Centre in Birmingham
Health Day at the HMP Oakwood Prison. South Staffordshire. We supported this project with free screening on Diabetes, high blood pressure and BMI
Diabetes and mental health sessions at The Hub, Wolverhampton
Lawn Tennis session in Wolverhampton West Park.
Team Meeting at our new Centre in Birmingham. Team building Day
Diabetes prevention session at the Hub in Wolverhampton.
COMMUNITY LAWN TENNIS IN WOLVERHAMPTON – JOIN US!
Global Diabetes Initiatives is coordinating a Community Lawn Tennis Programme in Wolverhampton, open to everyone — young and old, beginners and experienced players alike.
Every Saturday
10:00am – 11:00am
- Free rackets and balls provided
- Friendly, inclusive, and supportive environment
- A great way to stay active, meet people, and support your wellbeing
Supported by the Lawn Tennis Foundation
For more information, please contact:
Dr Matilda Chongwa
07888 633977
Come along, get active, and be part of our growing healthy community
Thanks
Diabetes Fashion Show
Diabetes Fashion Show – Where Awareness Meets Confidence
The Diabetes Fashion Show brought together style, education and emotional wellbeing in a powerful celebration of life with and beyond diabetes. Models, speakers and guests shared stories of strength, confidence and resilience, helping break stigma and inspire healthier, happier living.
The event promoted diabetes awareness, mental wellness, positive body image and community empowerment, proving that advocacy can be both impactful and beautiful. It was an uplifting experience that encouraged people to learn, connect, and feel seen, heard and supported.
A night of confidence.
A night of awareness.
A night that made a difference.
Be Part of the Next Show
We are now recruiting models for our next Diabetes Fashion Show.
If you would like to take part, please contact us:
📞 07888 633977
📩 info@globaldiabetesinitiatives.com
Kick Diabetes Out of UK - Charity Football Tournament
The Kick Diabetes Out of UK Charity Football Tournament brought energy, excitement and purpose to the pitch as 10 competitive teams played for health, awareness and community unity. This was more than football, it was a movement focused on preventing diabetes, promoting wellbeing and empowering people to take charge of their health.
Alongside the matches, the event offered free diabetes screening, blood pressure checks and BMI assessments, giving players and spectators the opportunity for early detection, education and lifestyle guidance. The atmosphere was powerful – teamwork on the field, health empowerment off the field, and community spirit everywhere.
We were honoured to have the event witnessed and supported by:
- Deputy Lieutenant Sandra Samuels
- Warinder Juss, Member of Parliament
- Lisa Murray, Mental Health Transformation & Delivery Commissioning Manager,
Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Their presence highlighted the importance of partnership working to tackle diabetes, improve mental health and promote healthier communities through sport.
This tournament continues to grow as a platform for awareness, prevention and healthier living through sport. We believe football can be fun, competitive and life-changing and together, we can Kick Diabetes Out of the UK.
Computer Training and certificates ceremony
Powered by Global Diabetes Initiatives
Supported by City of Wolverhampton Council – Digital Team & Black Country Housing Group
The Computer Training & Certificates Ceremony celebrated achievement, growth and confidence as learners successfully completed our digital skills programme. This initiative equips community members with essential technology knowledge, improving digital access, employability, communication and everyday independence.
With support from the City of Wolverhampton Council Digital Team and Black Country Housing Group, participants developed valuable skills including:
- Basic computer operation & building digital confidence
• Internet and email usage
• Online safety & secure information handling
• Microsoft Office and document creation
• Use of government and health-related online services
Health and Wellbeing Event in Wolverhampton in collaboration with the NHS health and wellbeing trust
A key part of the training included learning how to navigate and use the NHS App, empowering participants to manage their own healthcare more easily. Training covered:
- How to download and log into the NHS App
• Booking GP appointments remotely
• Ordering repeat prescriptions
• Viewing medical records and test results
• Accessing vaccination records
• Using digital health tools confidently and safely
This component plays a vital role in self-management of long-term health conditions, especially diabetes, and reduces barriers for those who struggle with accessing in-person healthcare services.
This programme reflects GDI’s mission to bridge the digital divide, improve health access, and empower communities with lifelong digital and health-management skills.
Wolverhampton MP visited the Global Diabetes Initiatives Centre
We were honoured to welcome Sureena Brackenridge — Member of Parliament for Wolverhampton Northeast to the Global Diabetes Initiatives Centre, where we showcased our ongoing work in diabetes awareness, screening, prevention, and community wellbeing support.
During her visit, we discussed:
- Diabetes screening, blood pressure checks and BMI assessment programmes
• Prevention approaches using physical activity, lifestyle change and nutrition
• Digital inclusion and computer training for better health access
• Local health inequalities and barriers within communities
• Future partnership opportunities to improve health outcomes across Wolverhampton
MP Sureena Brackenridge engaged warmly with, volunteers and service users, hearing powerful real-life experiences and seeing first-hand the positive impact of our programmes. Her presence highlighted the importance of community-based prevention and strengthened our collaborative pathway moving forward.
We are grateful for her time, support and willingness to engage with our mission, together we can reduce diabetes risks and improve lives across Wolverhampton and the UK.
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Activities in GDI Office in Wolverhampton
The West Midlands police invited the Global Diabetes Initiatives to attend their community event
Computer training at GDI sponsored but Wolverhampton Council
Health and wellbeing day in collaboration with SUIT
Global Diabetes Initiatives in collaboration Total Health Primary Care Network
Newbridge Surgery, Wolverhampton
Global Diabetes Initiatives was honoured to be invited to take part in the Health and Wellbeing Event hosted at Newbridge Surgery in collaboration with Wolverhampton Total Health Primary Care Network. The event focused on improving community health, raising awareness and empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing.
Our team provided free health screening, including:
- Diabetes risk assessment
• Blood pressure checks
• BMI measurement and lifestyle guidance
During the session, 120 people were screened, allowing many attendees to gain a clearer understanding of their health, receive early detection advice and access support for lifestyle changes.
This event reflects our ongoing mission to promote prevention, early intervention, and equitable access to health services across Wolverhampton and the UK. By working collaboratively with healthcare providers, we are helping communities reduce health risks, build awareness and move towards healthier living.
Public Health Director Wolverhampton visited Global Diabetes Initiatives to plan future collaboration
Cycling UK in collaboration with Global Diabetes Initiatives event
Meeting with the NHS Mental Health Commissioner and Health talk at Global Diabetes Initiatives office
Free Health Screening Event in Wolverhampton: A Community Success Story
Organised by Global Diabetes Initiatives in Collaboration with the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton.
Global Diabetes Initiatives (GDI), in partnership with the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton, recently hosted a Free Health Screening Day in Wolverhampton, offering vital checks for Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, and Prostate Cancer. The event was a great success, well-attended by local residents, and praised for its organisation and impact.
The day combined health education and practical screening, with an excellent lineup of speakers, including Tony Kelly, Diabetes Ambassador, who shared powerful insights into diabetes prevention and self-care. The event provided community members with free health checks, important resources, and valuable information to take control of their health.
Screenings were efficiently coordinated, and all individuals with high readings or deemed at risk were referred to their GP for further medical attention a critical step toward early intervention and prevention.
A Heartfelt Thank You To:
Healthwatch Wolverhampton, The National Diabetes Prevention Programme Team, NHS Health and Wellbeing Team, Macmillan Cancer Support Team, Tony Kelly – Diabetes Ambassador, Rotary Club of Wolverhampton Members, and Global Diabetes Initiatives Volunteers and Team
Your support, expertise, and presence made the event not just possible but powerful. Together, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of many across our community.
We look forward to hosting more events like this to promote health, awareness, and access to care.
Cycling UK in collaboration with Global Diabetes Initiatives
We’re Back: Big Bike Revival – Learn to Ride & Fix & Ride. We’re excited to announce the return of the Big Bike Revival programme-back for its second year and stronger than ever! Saturday, 19th April, marked the first session of “Learn to Ride a Bike” and what a fantastic start it was! The session was well attended, full of energy, smiles, and determination. Whether it was someone hopping on a bike for the very first time or brushing up on balance and control, the sense of achievement was incredible.
What’s the programme about?
Big Bike Revival offers free sessions to help people:
- Learn to ride a bike confidently
- Learn to fix and maintain bikes
- Get moving, get healthy, and have fun in a supportive, community-driven environment
This initiative isn’t just about cycling, it’s about fitness, freedom, and feeling good. Physical activity plays a crucial role in overall health, and we’re proud to be part of a movement that makes fitness more accessible.
Let’s do this together.
Whether you’re returning for another year or joining for the first time, we welcome you with open arms (and helmets!). Please scroll down to check out some highlights from our first session, see the joy, the progress, and the community spirit in action. Stay tuned for upcoming dates and how to get involved!
EmpowerHer Health Event: A Huge Success in Wolverhampton!
On March 8th, Global Diabetes Initiatives proudly hosted the EmpowerHer Health Event in celebration of International Women’s Day. The event was a resounding success, bringing together an incredible lineup of speakers, a fantastic audience, and a shared commitment to supporting people living with diabetes.
A key highlight of the day was the distribution of 130 Healthy Food Hampers to individuals managing diabetes, reinforcing our mission to promote healthier lifestyles. The turnout exceeded expectations, demonstrating the strong community spirit and the importance of raising awareness about diabetes and women’s health.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsor, the Big Lottery Community Fund, for making this event possible. A special thank you also goes to BBC West Midlands for their invaluable support in promoting the event, helping us reach and impact even more lives.
The EmpowerHer Health Event was more than just a gathering—it was a movement towards empowerment, education, and better health for all. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this day truly special!
Diabetes and Emotional Wellbeing Symposium 10th Edition
Education on Preventing Type 2 Diabetes and Distributing Healthy Food Hampers
Overview
The “Education on Preventing Type 2 Diabetes and Distributing Healthy Food Hampers” project, powered by Global Diabetes Initiatives, aimed to promote diabetes awareness and support healthier lifestyles among ethnic minority communities in Wolverhampton. The primary objective was to educate participants on the prevention and management of Type 2 diabetes and provide healthy food hampers to support individuals already living with the condition. The project was sponsored by Community Funds, with key logistical and professional support from Global Diabetes Initiatives.
Target Audience and Participation
This project targeted members of the diabetes communities, particularly those from ethnic minority groups, a demographic known to have a higher risk for Type 2 diabetes due to genetic and socioeconomic factors. A large number of individuals from these communities participated in the event, keen to learn about how they could reduce their risks and manage their health more effectively.
Key Activities
1. Education Sessions on Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
One of the central components of the project was the educational session focused on Type 2 diabetes prevention. Global Diabetes Initiatives invited healthcare professionals, including endocrinologists, dietitians, and diabetes educators, to give talks. These professionals provided valuable insights into the causes and risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes, including:
- The role of diet and physical activity in preventing diabetes.
- The importance of maintaining a healthy weight.
- How ethnic minorities are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and the special precautions they should take.
- Early symptoms of diabetes and how early detection can help manage the disease better.
These sessions were interactive, allowing participants to ask questions and share their personal experiences, which enriched the learning environment.
2. Distribution of Healthy Food Hampers
Recognizing that proper nutrition is a key factor in diabetes prevention and management, the project included the distribution of healthy food hampers. These hampers were designed to provide nutritious food options that aligned with diabetes-friendly diets. The food items included:
- Whole grains (such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats)
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Low-sodium canned goods and legumes
- Healthy fats like olive oil and nuts
The hampers aimed to provide immediate support to those living with diabetes by ensuring access to nutritious meals while also promoting the adoption of long-term healthy eating habits.
Sponsorship and Support
This project was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Community Funds. Their financial contribution enabled the successful delivery of education sessions and the distribution of the food hampers to community members. Global Diabetes Initiatives played a critical role in organizing and coordinating the event, leveraging its network to bring in experts, volunteers, and resources.
Impact and Outcomes
The project had a significant impact on the participants, who gained valuable knowledge about diabetes prevention and the role of healthy eating. Key outcomes include:
- Increased Awareness: Participants left with a better understanding of how lifestyle changes could prevent or manage Type 2 diabetes, particularly for those at higher risk within ethnic minority communities.
- Healthier Food Access: The distribution of food hampers helped bridge the gap in access to healthy, diabetes-friendly foods for many attendees, who often face barriers such as cost and availability.
- Community Empowerment: By engaging local communities in discussions on diabetes prevention, the project empowered participants to take control of their health and share knowledge within their networks.
Conclusion
The “Education on Preventing Type 2 Diabetes and Distributing Healthy Food Hampers” project was a resounding success in addressing the specific health needs of ethnic minority communities in Wolverhampton. Through the efforts of Global Diabetes Initiatives and the support of Community Funds, the project provided vital education and practical assistance that will help prevent the spread of Type 2 diabetes and improve the lives of those already managing the condition.
Future iterations of this initiative could expand outreach efforts and involve even more diverse communities, continuing to combat the rise of Type 2 diabetes in at-risk populations.
Global Diabetes initiatives and Funded by UK Cycling
We successfully hosted a series of Free Adult Cycling Events powered by Global Diabetes Initiatives and funded by UK Cycling. These events brought the community together to promote healthy living, build cycling skills, and foster social connection through active transportation.
Participants had the opportunity to practice cycling in local areas, build confidence on the road, and enjoy group rides in a friendly and supportive environment.
World Diabetes Fashion Show and Empowerment Night 2023: Celebrating Strength and Style
In celebration of International Women’s Day 2023, the World Diabetes Fashion Show and Empowerment Night took place as a two-day event at the Leonardo Hotel Leicester. Organised by Global Diabetes Initiatives, this unique event aimed to inspire and empower individuals with diabetes, encouraging them to embrace life fully while managing the condition.
The event featured a series of confidence-building workshops and empowerment sessions designed to help participants develop self-assurance and a positive mindset. Experts in diabetes care, confidence-building, and empowerment shared their knowledge and provided valuable insights, fostering a supportive and motivating atmosphere for attendees.
We extend our thanks to everyone who participated and supported this meaningful event, as well as the Global Diabetes Initiatives for their continued work in empowering individuals in the diabetes community.
Food Justice Campaign for People Living with Diabetes in Wolverhampton
The Global Diabetes Initiatives recently launched a Food Justice Campaign at the Wolverhampton Council event room on January 20, 2023 , focusing on people living with diabetes from underserved communities. This significant event aimed to address the crucial issue of food access and nutrition for individuals managing diabetes, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds who may face barriers to accessing healthy food.
Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing a strong desire for more initiatives like this. The community welcomed the campaign’s focus on the intersection of food justice and health, emphasising the need for continued support and resources to empower those managing diabetes. The Global Diabetes Initiatives extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the event.
This campaign marks a promising step towards addressing health disparities and fostering community-driven solutions in Wolverhampton.
World diabetes Day 2022: Celebration at Wolverhampton Chambers in UK
Coordinated by Global Diabetes Initiatives, the event was a resounding success, contributing to the city’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about diabetes. We were especially thrilled to have the Diabetes UK East Staffordshire team join us, as their support added immense value to the occasion. Given the urgency of this issue, the need for such events is clear, and we are proud to announce that this will now be a yearly event, a testament to our unwavering commitment to the community.
Diabetes is one of the four leading causes of death globally, making education and awareness vital tools in the fight against this life-threatening disease. At Global Diabetes Initiatives, we aim to provide the community with the information and resources they need to understand better, manage, and prevent diabetes. Education is the backbone of our work; we believe it is essential to building a healthier future for all.
On the occasion of the world diabetes day, the Global Diabetes Initiatives celebrated with a series of activities with detail and more shown in the pictures below.
The World Diabetes Day 2021: Diabetes and Emotional Well-being
World Diabetes Day (WDD) 2021, organized by Global Diabetes Initiatives, focused on the theme “Diabetes and Emotional Well-being.” This event aimed at raising awareness about the emotional and psychological impact diabetes can have on individuals and their families. The event was well-attended, drawing in people from various communities, including individuals living with diabetes, healthcare professionals, and supporters.
The event featured a series of engaging sessions led by our esteemed team members, who brought their expertise in diabetes care and management. These speakers highlighted the importance of mental health alongside physical well-being, emphasizing the emotional challenges faced by those living with diabetes. Their presentations covered crucial topics such as stress management, the importance of emotional support networks, and strategies for maintaining mental wellness.
A particularly moving aspect of the event was the involvement of several individuals living with diabetes who shared their personal stories. These brave participants opened up about their journeys, detailing the highs and lows of managing diabetes, and how they’ve navigated the emotional aspects of living with the condition. Their testimonies were not only inspiring but also served to motivate others in similar circumstances to remain hopeful and resilient.
The event’s interactive nature allowed attendees to engage with speakers and fellow participants, creating a supportive community atmosphere. It became clear through the discussions that managing diabetes is not just a physical challenge but an emotional one as well. Addressing these psychological aspects can make a world of difference in the lives of those affected.
Overall, World Diabetes Day 2021 was a success, bringing much-needed attention to the intersection of diabetes and emotional health. The event fostered an environment of empathy, learning, and encouragement, ensuring that both medical professionals and individuals with diabetes left feeling empowered and better equipped to handle the emotional side of diabetes.
It is very natural to experience a range of emotions when you first learn that you have diabetes, including shock, rage, and denial. These unfavorable emotions may fade as you learn more about the disease and what you need to do to stay healthy.
However, mental anguish related to diabetes affects roughly 4 out of 10 people with the disease. This has significant long-term health repercussions and undermines their capacity to control their diabetes. How well you are able to take care of yourself has a significant impact on how well your diabetes is controlled.
Distress related to diabetes is not considered a mental health issue. Instead, it is a reaction to the strains of dealing with a difficult long-term condition. Because they are not the same and call for different treatments, depression and diabetes distress must be distinguished from one another.
