November 14, 202514 November marks World Diabetes Day, a global health awareness day that recognises the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who in 1922 co-discovered lifesaving insulin. His discovery was life changing and provided the treatment to allow millions of people worldwide to live full and healthy lives with diabetes.
This year’s World Diabetes Day campaign shines a spotlight on “Diabetes and Wellbeing”, with a particular focus on wellbeing in the workplace. The aim is to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage supportive environments for people living with diabetes or at risk of developing the condition.
Globally, seven in 10 people living with diabetes are of working age. However, research shows that many experience stigma, discrimination, stress, fear, and exclusion in their workplaces. These challenges can have a significant impact on their mental health, wellbeing, career progression, and ability to effectively self-manage their diabetes.
At Northern Health, we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and healthy workplace for all staff. We encourage every organisation to do the same — to recognise the importance of workplace wellbeing and to take practical steps to support employees living with diabetes.
Some examples of diabetes-friendly workplace strategies include:
- Providing a private, clean space for insulin injections or blood glucose monitoring (not in a toilet)
- Ensuring first aid officers are trained in recognising and treating hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels)
- Keeping hypo food (such as jellybeans or glucose tablets) readily available onsite
- Promoting exercise initiatives and healthy food options in staff areas and cafeterias
“Having a diabetes friendly workplace is so important for the person living with diabetes to feel supported and safe, and comfortable enough to disclose that they have diabetes. It can enhance their ability to self-manage their diabetes whilst at work. This also benefits the employer through the employee having greater energy at work, improved job performance and potentially reducing absenteeism. It creates a win-win situation,” says Karen Moulton, Clinical Nurse Consultant Diabetes, Northern Health.
Employers can also take the opportunity to assess how supportive their workplace is by completing the Diabetes Workplace Quiz, available at: worlddiabetesday.org/diabetes-workplace-quiz
To learn more, visit our World Diabetes Day display board in the Northern Hospital Epping main foyer from Monday 10 November to Friday 14 November. The display will feature practical tips, educational resources, and information on how we can all play a role in supporting diabetes awareness and wellbeing — at work and beyond.
Together, we can create a workplace culture that empowers people with diabetes to thrive.
Pictured in featured image (L-R): Julie Wallace, Jennifer Marano and Karen Moulton (all Diabetes Clinical Nurse Consultants/Credentialled Diabetes Educators).
