MY BROTHER has Type 1 diabetes so I know the impact it has on his day-to-day life and how important it is to manage the condition effectively.

But I have heard stories from children and young people about the emotional difficulties they deal with, which can make it harder for them to manage their condition.

They talk about how they have been teased, left out of things and even bullied, all because they have diabetes.

It is hard enough as it is being a teenager, then add to that the added responsibilities of coping with diabetes, without having to be treated differently by school friends and adults as well.

The emotional turmoil this can cause could also impact on how well they manage their condition, which if not treated properly can lead to serious complications in later life.

There are some 20,000 children aged 15 and under with Type 1 diabetes in the UK, and it is thought another 2,000 children are diagnosed every year.

Diabetes UK has written a Children’s Charter, with a wish list of 10 areas that could improve the experience for children with diabetes.

I urge readers to sign the Diabetes UK petition calling for more care and support for children and young people with diabetes. Find it online (link below).

MELANIE C, Diabetes UK, London