Our helpline number is 0345 123 2399. It is a dedicated diabetes helpline for all people with diabetes, their family or friends, and people who are worried they might be at risk.
Call our confidential helpline to talk to our highly trained advisors – they have counselling skills and an extensive knowledge of diabetes. They can provide information about the condition, take the time to talk things through and explore emotional, social, psychological or practical difficulties. You don't need a question about diabetes to call us.
How to contact us
England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Call: 0345 123 2399*, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm
Email: helpline@diabetes.org.uk
Scotland
Call: 0141 212 8710*, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.
Email: helpline.scotland@diabetes.org.uk
Find out more about Helpline Scotland.
Watch our video and listen to Ben, Emma, George and Emily explain who it’s for, how we help and why our helpline is so important.
https://youtu.be/xea3Bw6TEP0
How can we help?
We can help with queries about a range of topics. Here are just a few examples of the questions we are often asked:
I've just been diagnosed. What should I do now?
I'm finding it difficult to accept the diagnosis – how do I cope?
What can I and can't I eat? Can I still drink alcohol?
What are the different types of tablets and insulin? What are the possible side effects?
When and how often should I test?
What should my blood glucose levels be? What if they go too high or too low?
What's the law about driving?
I'm about to go on holiday abroad. How do I keep my insulin cool in a hot country? What else do I need to consider when travelling?
My child has diabetes and finds it hard to give up his treats. Why don't you recommend diabetic chocolate and sweets?
My child has diabetes and has been told they can’t go on a school trip. What can I do to make sure they’re included at school?
Not everyone has a specific query; some just call simply to talk through their concerns or how they’re feeling.
Please be aware that we don't have access to your medical records, so you may need to go back to your healthcare team for answers to some questions.
Other languages
If you would like to speak with us in a language other than English, just call the helpline number and tell us your name, telephone number and the language you wish to speak in. We will then arrange for an interpreter to call you back within a few minutes.