Our History and Mission

The origins of our organisation can be traced back to 1957, when the first efforts were made to establish a charity focused on diabetes. It was not until 1967, however, that these efforts gained real momentum. More than seven hundred and fifty people attended the first public meeting of the Irish Diabetic Association, now known as Diabetes Ireland, in Dublin. This powerful show of support marked the beginning of a movement that continues to grow.

One of our earliest and most significant achievements occurred in 1971, when we successfully secured access to free medication for all people living with diabetes. This remains in place today. Under the Long-Term Illness Scheme, every person in Ireland diagnosed with diabetes is entitled to receive diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol medication free of charge. Diabetes is one of only sixteen conditions included in the scheme, saving each person hundreds of euros every year and removing a major financial barrier to effective treatment.

Since that time, our organisation has continued to expand and strengthen. We have become a strong, united voice advocating for better services and improved care for those living with diabetes, while actively influencing health policy.

In 2013, we enhanced our reach through the purchase of a state-of-the-art national headquarters in Santry, which now allows us to deliver essential services directly to thousands of individuals each year. The opening of a second Care Centre in Cork further reinforced our role at the heart of diabetes care in Ireland.

Today, Diabetes Ireland remains committed to building a future where every person affected by diabetes receives the care, understanding, and support they need to live well.

Our Aims

To provide support, education, and motivation to people living with diabetes, as well as their families and friends.
To raise public awareness of diabetes and to promote initiatives that encourage early detection, the prevention of complications, and a reduction in the overall impact of the condition.
To support and promote advancements in diabetes care and research that lead to improvements in both quality of life and standards of care.

Living with diabetes can be challenging. However, with the right advice, guidance, and support, there is no reason why people with diabetes cannot enjoy a full and active life. This purpose guides everything we do. Each year, through our education and information services, we provide essential care and support to thousands of people throughout Ireland living with diabetes, along with their families, at the times when they need it most.

Our Services

Diabetes Ireland offers a wide range of services supporting individuals living with diabetes, their families, carers, and healthcare professionals:

Diabetes Helpline: Available Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm. Call 01 8428118 for support and information.
Website and Social Media: Comprehensive information is accessible at www.diabetes.ie, including regular updates on diabetes care and research.
Publications: Members receive the Diabetes Ireland magazine, packed with news, research, and practical advice.
Online Education Sessions and Webinars: Delivered by our expert Diabetes Ireland health professional team, these provide practical guidance to manage diabetes effectively.
Structured Education Programme (CODE): A free, in-depth programme for people living with Type 2 diabetes, focusing on self-management skills.
Diabetes SMART: A free, interactive online education programme developed with Novo Nordisk. It covers what diabetes is, understanding key medical information, illness management, healthy eating, and physical activity. The course is flexible and accessible on multiple devices.
Care Centres in Dublin and Cork: Offering preventative podiatry, diabetic retinopathy screening (in partnership with the Health Service Executive), and one-to-one counselling for emotional and psychological support.
Specialist Insurance Advice: Guidance on mortgage protection, travel cover, private motor insurance, and support against discrimination.
Health Promotion Initiatives: Delivered across schools, workplaces, and communities to raise awareness and encourage early detection.
Education and Awareness Training: Provided for staff in public and private care settings, including residential and day care facilities.
Support for Children and Young People: Age-appropriate activities including teenage events, family weekends, and workshops for parents.
Healthcare Professional Development: Annual conferences, webinars, educational publications, and accredited training support the delivery of high standards in diabetes care.
Research Support: Promoted and funded through the Diabetes Ireland Research Alliance, advancing understanding and potential cures.

Advocacy

Advocacy remains a primary focus for Diabetes Ireland.

We aim to secure:

Improved public services
Faster and better access to high-quality care, diabetes technology, and medications
Greater recognition of diabetes and the diabetes community by government and public officials

Efforts continue unabated to achieve meaningful improvements benefiting all those affected by diabetes.

For more information on our advocacy work, please visit:

Diabetes Ireland Advocacy

Care Centres

Our Care Centres in Cork and Dublin are vital resources for people living with diabetes. They provide podiatry, diabetic retinopathy screening, counselling services, and extensive support for people recently diagnosed or managing diabetes long-term.

To book an appointment:

Cork: 021 4274229
Dublin: 01 8428118

Previous Campaigns and Ongoing Initiatives

Diabetes Ireland continues to strive in multiple campaigns aimed at improving the lives of people with diabetes:

TEST Type 1 Diabetes Campaign: Focused on increasing awareness and improving outcomes for those living with Type 1 diabetes.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Awareness: In collaboration with the Irish Kidney Association, this campaign raises awareness of the link between diabetes and kidney disease. It encourages regular screening and discussion with healthcare providers.
Back to School Campaign: Supports teachers, special needs assistants (SNAs), parents, and diabetes teams to help children with diabetes transition smoothly back to school.
Teacher and SNA Diabetes Training Days: Delivered in conjunction with paediatric diabetes teams (e.g., at Cork University Hospital) and through online webinars by our Diabetes Ireland health professional team.
Diabetes Language Matters Ireland Guide: Developed by a working group of people with lived experience, academics, and healthcare professionals, this guide promotes respectful and effective communication around diabetes, supporting media and public understanding.
Heart Health Campaign: Diabetes Ireland participated in initiatives promoting cardiovascular health awareness among people with diabetes, emphasising the importance of heart health monitoring and preventative care.

Impact and Success Stories

Through our ongoing work, Diabetes Ireland support thousands of people. Stories of individuals empowered through education, care, and advocacy illustrate the positive impact we continue to have nationwide.

Volunteer and Partnership Opportunities

We welcome individuals and organisations interested in supporting our mission. Whether through volunteering, corporate partnerships, or fundraising, your involvement makes a difference. Contact 01 8428118 or email info@diabetes.ie

Accessibility Statement

Diabetes Ireland is committed to inclusivity and ensuring our services, publications, and events are accessible to all.

Upcoming Events and News

Stay informed about upcoming workshops, conferences, and awareness days by subscribing to our newsletter.

Data Privacy & Confidentiality

We respect and protect the privacy of everyone who contacts or uses our services. All personal information is handled with strict confidentiality in accordance with GDPR.

Thank you for your interest in Diabetes Ireland. Together, we can support everyone affected by diabetes to live well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What support does Diabetes Ireland offer for newly diagnosed people?

We provide education programmes, helpline support, and access to Care Centres to help newly diagnosed individuals understand and manage their condition.

How can I participate in Diabetes Ireland education programmes?

Visit our website or contact our helpline to learn about CODE, Diabetes SMART, and upcoming webinars.

Is Diabetes Ireland involved in research?

Yes, through our affiliated Diabetes Ireland Research Alliance, we promote and fund scientific research into causes, management, and cure of diabetes.