Every June, people across the UK come together for Diabetes Week (often called Diabetes Awareness Week) to shine a light on what it’s really like to live with diabetes, challenge misconceptions, and encourage better support for everyone affected. Diabetes UK has confirmed that Diabetes Week 2026 runs from 8–14 June, with a focus on tackling diabetes stigma through its campaign theme: “Strike Out Stigma”. The message is simple: nobody chooses diabetes—and blame or judgement helps no one.

What is Diabetes Awareness Week?

Diabetes Awareness Week is a UK-wide campaign that brings together people living with diabetes, their families, healthcare professionals, schools, workplaces and communities. It’s a chance to share real stories, promote understanding, and highlight practical ways to reduce harm—whether that’s spotting symptoms earlier, getting the right care, or changing the way we speak about diabetes, so people feel supported rather than judged.

Diabetes in the UK: why awareness matters

Diabetes is one of the UK’s biggest and fastest-growing health challenges. According to Diabetes UK estimates, more than 5.8 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, including almost 4.6 million diagnosed and nearly 1.3 million who may have type 2 diabetes but don’t yet know it.

·       Type 2 diabetes accounts for around 90% of diagnoses; type 1 accounts for around 8%.

·       An estimated 6.3 million people are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes (based on blood sugar levels).

·       Without the right support, diabetes can lead to serious complications. Diabetes UK reports that every week diabetes is linked to 184 amputations, and more than 980 strokes, 680 heart attacks and 3,230 cases of heart failure.

Know the signs: when to get checked

Awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis and quicker access to care. If you’re worried about symptoms, it’s always worth speaking to a healthcare professional. Common signs that can be linked with diabetes include:

•     Going to the toilet more often than usual (especially at night)

•     Feeling very thirsty

•     Feeling unusually tired

•     Unexplained weight loss

•     Blurred vision

•     Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections

Note: These symptoms can have many causes and don’t always mean diabetes. But if they’re persistent or worsening, getting checked is a sensible step.

Strike out stigma: words matter

Diabetes Week 2026 is centred on tackling stigma—those everyday comments, assumptions or judgements that can make life harder for people living with diabetes. Diabetes UK highlights that 8 in 10 people with diabetes say they’ve experienced negative attitudes, such as blame or shaming. Stigma can discourage people from seeking support, attending appointments, or feeling confident to manage their condition openly.

•     Avoid blame-based comments like “Should you be eating that?”—food choices and blood glucose management are complex.

•     Don’t assume the type. Type 1 and type 2 are different conditions with different causes and treatments.

•     Ask before advising. A simple “How can I support you?” goes a long way.

•     Make space for diabetes management (checking glucose, taking medication, or injecting insulin) without awkwardness.

•     Challenge myths kindly when you hear them—accurate information reduces harm.

How to get involved in Diabetes Week:

You don’t need to be a medical expert to make a difference. Here are a few simple ways to take part in Diabetes Awareness Week:

•     Start a conversation: Ask friends, family or colleagues what they know about diabetes—and share one new fact you’ve learned.

•     Share campaign messages: Post a myth-busting message, a personal story (your own or shared with permission), or a supportive reminder about stigma.

•     Support someone living with diabetes: Check in, listen, and respect what support looks like for them.

•     Bring it to your workplace or school: Invite a speaker, run a wellbeing session, or share a short “Diabetes Week” notice in newsletters.

•     Use ready-made materials: Diabetes UK provides downloadable posters and social media tiles you can print or share.

•     Fundraise or donate: Many local communities organise walks, challenges or collections to support diabetes research and services.

If you have diabetes: don’t miss your health checks

Recent Diabetes Week campaigns have also highlighted the value of regular diabetes health checks (often called an annual review). These appointments help you and your care team keep track of things like long-term blood glucose, heart and kidney health, as well as eye and foot checks—so any problems can be spotted early. If you’re overdue for reviews or struggling to get appointments, it’s okay to ask your GP practice or diabetes team what checks you’re entitled to and how to book them.

Where to find support and reliable information:

If you want to learn more, look for trusted sources such as Diabetes UK and NHS guidance (see links below). Diabetes UK’s Diabetes Week hub includes campaign information and printable resources you can share, plus support information for people living with diabetes.

Final thought: awareness is action

Diabetes Awareness Week isn’t only about facts and figures—it’s about people. Whether you’re learning the basics, supporting a loved one, or living with diabetes yourself, small actions can have a big impact. This week let’s replace judgement with understanding, swap myths for facts, and help create a UK where diabetes does no harm.

For more information, please click on the links below:

Diabetes UK:  Diabetes Week 2026

NHS: Diabetes - NHS

British Heart Foundation:  Diabetes - Causes, symptoms & treatments | BHF - BHF

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