2024 was a pivotal year for Diabetes Ireland, marked by a major advance in advocating for improved diabetes services and expansion of education initiatives and supports for people living with diabetes and their families across the country. At the heart of all our efforts is a simple goal to empower people with diabetes to live well.
The report details positive strides in advocacy, education and mental health and wellbeing support. One of the most significant developments in 2024 was the announcement by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly TD of a long-awaited review of Ireland’s national diabetes policy and services. This landmark move follows years of advocacy by Diabetes Ireland and the diabetes community and was strongly supported by our “Ask Your Local Candidates” campaign, which mobilised the diabetes community to seek political commitment ahead of the general election. We also engaged continuously with government and healthcare stakeholders to advocate for equitable access to diabetes technology, psychological supports, and improved care pathways for all.
Throughout the year, Diabetes Ireland expanded its educational reach and support services, benefitting thousands of people with diabetes and their families. People accessed help through our national helpline and website, a wide range of education programmes and through our care centres. The DigiBete App, a resource for families managing Type 1 diabetes, was actively used by more than 1,170 families, offering daily support in diabetes management. Community events, education programmes and information meetings provided both practical management advice and emotional support to attendees.
Mental health and wellbeing remained a critical focus in 2024, with the continued development of our Mental Health & Wellbeing Support Programme. This initiative has been specifically tailored for adults with Type 2 diabetes, parents of children with Type 1 diabetes, and adults newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Early feedback from pilot programmes has been overwhelmingly positive, confirming the urgent need for integrated mental health services in diabetes care. The programme is set to expand further in 2025.
Community engagement remained a pillar of the charity’s work. The Diabetes Health Awareness Exhibition drew over 2,000 attendees, while family days and teen events offered valuable opportunities for peer to peer connections and support. Our popular “Living Well with Diabetes 50 & 65 Year” medal ceremonies celebrated the resilience of a further 75 individuals who have positively managed their diabetes for decades highlighting good self-care, perseverance and strong family support.
Public awareness also received a boost from new ambassador, Everton FC and Republic of Ireland footballer Jake O’Brien, whose personal story inspired many young people with Type 1 diabetes. Meanwhile, the TEST campaign, aimed at improving awareness of the early symptoms of Type 1 diabetes has reached more than 2.4 million people. Our health promotion team delivered numerous information sessions to various audiences including Men’s and Women’s Sheds, workplace employees, school staff, and nursing homes. These sessions helped raise awareness of diabetes prevention, early detection, and daily management.
2024 also saw a strong focus on further supporting the educational development of our fantastic diabetes healthcare professionals. Diabetes Ireland hosted its annual DICE Conference, attended by more than 300 healthcare professionals. We also helped host the inaugural Diabetes Technology Network Ireland (DTN IRL) conference, where 160 professionals gathered to explore innovations in diabetes technology including continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps, and closed-loop systems. A new e-zine for healthcare professionals was introduced alongside educational webinars, and we continue to actively participate in research projects aimed at improving future standards of diabetes care.
As the only national charity in Ireland solely focused on diabetes, Diabetes Ireland continued to reaffirm its commitment to advocating for better services, advancing public education, and directly supporting the diabetes community. The report acknowledges the vital contributions of its members, volunteers, staff, healthcare partners, fundraisers, and corporate supporters, without whom the progress of 2024 would not have been possible.
With the continued support of our community, we are committed to building a healthier future for everyone living with diabetes in Ireland,” the report concludes, marking the year as one of both progress and promise.
Read our 2024 Annual Report here