A WOMAN who launched a support group after discovering that a shocking proportion of her town was living with type two diabetes has been recognised by a national charity.  

Karen Jackson-Smith, from Millom, was diagnosed in May and decided to set up a support group after discovering that 10 per cent of the town's population also had the condition. 

The 53-year-old joined forces with Millom Health Action Group to deliver a scheme that enabled people to come together and share their ideas and top tips for coping with diabetes. 

Now, after just two meetings, the group has been recognised by national charity, Diabetes UK, which now acknowledges the group as part of its official network. 

Ms Jackson Smith was delighted by the news and said: "It opens up quite a few doors, I think, in terms of supporting us nationally and regionally. 

"It's great for people to know that we're backed by a national charity and also for the support as well."

Delighted by the encouragement from the community, Ms Jackson Smith is eager to thank everyone who helped get the group up and running. 

She said: "Claire Muir from Better Care Together has been absolutely fantastic and has been a great source of help."

The group hopes to hold regular monthly meetings with guest speakers who will discuss key issues such as eating the right foods and getting the right kind of exercise. 

With no other type two diabetes support groups within an hour and a half's drive, Millom is set to be a magnet for people across south Cumbria looking for support. 

Stuart Vaughan, North West volunteer development manager at Diabetes UK, believes community groups carry out important work for the charity and he is delighted to welcome the Millom group on board.

He said: “Local groups are a vital part of our organisation and it is great to welcome this newest group in Millom. Karen’s work in setting up the group will help people living with type two diabetes to meet and share their experiences, which can help them to better manage their condition.”

Determined to ensure the group remains community-focused, Ms Jackson Smith is eager to hear any suggestions from people in the area and is thrilled to be able to give something back to the town she loves. 

She said: "Millom is home. That's what it's all about. It's home and we want the best for our home. 

"The community spirit is brilliant in Millom and it gets knocked sometimes but it has such a strong sense of community. 

"I'd never want to live anywhere else."

The next meeting will take place in the Tin Chapel in Mainsgate Road in Millom on May 5 at 6pm.

Read more:

Woman launches diabetes support group after discovering Millom's alarming figures