Newport Energy Hub Backs Diabetes Awareness Week

A community hub in Newport is helping raise awareness of diabetes and challenge common misconceptions about the condition as part of Diabetes Awareness Week.

The Isle of Wight Energy Hub, run by Utilita Energy, is supporting this year's "Strike Out Stigma" campaign by encouraging open conversations and offering advice to people living with long-term health conditions.

Leading the initiative is Claire Barrett, who lives with Type 1 diabetes and uses her personal experience to support visitors to the Hub.

Claire said one of the biggest myths surrounding diabetes is that it is caused by lifestyle choices, adding that nobody chooses to have Type 1 diabetes.

She is also highlighting the important role energy plays in managing the condition, from safely storing medication to powering glucose monitoring equipment and other medical devices.

Throughout the week, staff at the Newport Hub are offering guidance on energy efficiency, managing household bills and accessing additional support services.

Claire said she hopes sharing her own experience will encourage others to speak openly about diabetes and help tackle the stigma that still surrounds the condition.

The Hub, located on Newport High Street, provides free advice and support to Island residents and is also available for community groups to use as a meeting space.