Don’t let Covid cease you taking management of your diabetes, says Cherwell council

Cherwell residents will be given all the tools to make lifestyle changes and manage their type 2 diabetes even during Covid-19.

The GO Active Get Healthy program, administered by Cherwell District Council and funded by the Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, has been in operation in North Oxfordshire for the past four years, providing the latest advice and wellbeing to patients in need of help controlling their diabetes.

ALSO READ: Work begins on “urgent” 48-bed intensive care unit in Oxford

Councilor Andrew McHugh, senior member of the Cherwell District Council on Health and Wellbeing, said, “The GO Active Get Healthy program is a lifeline for people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and an opportunity for them to take the initiative to take and do something positive to take control of it condition.

“Even during the lockdown, the Cherwell team will be able to provide assistance to people with diabetes.”

The free six-month service typically helps about 10 new people a month on their way to better health. However, since the coronavirus pandemic began, those numbers have dropped significantly, raising concerns from health professionals that people are silently fighting alone.

Ellen Fallows, Oxfordshire GP is also the clinical director of the NHS pilot project on Type 2 Diabetes Remission. Dr. Fallows said, “During lockdown, staying active is more important than ever to improve your mood and keep your blood sugar healthy.

“Type 2 diabetes increases the likelihood of Covid-19 getting seriously ill. When you receive support from GO Active Get Healthy, you will be motivated to stick to your goals and move on.”

ALSO READ: Oxfordshire’s NHS Workers “Furious” Over 1 Percent Wage Rise

To help patients lock up, access to the GO Active Get Healthy program just got easier. Users can now refer themselves instead of waiting for a GP to sign them up.

The program has also been expanded several times so that members can get the most out of the program, even when gyms and leisure centers are closed.

This includes dedicated telephone support, a “home training” package with a free pedometer and premium access to the latest NHS-recommended EXi app with built-in activity tracker and tailored exercise recipe plan.

As soon as leisure centers and sports organizations reopen, patients will have access to a range of wellness options to help them increase their activity. This includes significant savings in community leisure centers such as £ 1 for an introduction to a gym, £ 1 per class and £ 1 for a swimming lesson.

Tanveer Siyan from Bicester has already benefited from the program. She said, “When I heard about the GO Active program, I took the opportunity to support my physical and mental health. I went to the gym at least twice a week and swam once a week.

ALSO READ: Met Office Issues Yellow Weather Warning for Winds in Oxfordshire

“I’ve lost 10 kg, the insulin I took has been cut in half, and my mental health has improved significantly. I am extremely grateful for this program. Thanks to GAGH and Cherwell District Council.”

For more information about the program for yourself or a relative, visit www.cherwell.gov.uk/GoActiveGetHealthy or www.getoxfordshireactive.org