In October 2022, I joined forces with the team at The Bournemouth Heart Club to launch a pioneering programme: Refocusise – a diabetes rehabilitation course designed specifically for people living with Type 2 diabetes. The name says it all: Refocus on your diabetes and exercise.

We’ve had Cardiac Rehab and Pulmonary Rehab for decades. So why not Diabetes Rehab? Exercise is a cornerstone of managing long-term conditions – and Type 2 diabetes is no exception.

A holistic approach to self-management

Our goal was to create more than just an exercise class. We wanted to empower individuals with the knowledge, confidence, and tools to take ownership of their condition.

Healthcare professionals across the spectrum – GPs, practice nurses, pharmacists, social prescribers – all play vital roles in shaping outcomes for people with diabetes. But ultimately, those who are empowered, who understand their condition, know where to seek help, and feel confident in managing their health, are the ones who thrive.

What we've achieved

Over nearly three years, Liv Bailey, Heart Club Manager, along with our dedicated exercise specialists Julia and Sarah, and myself, have built a course that is robust, engaging, and well-attended. More than 150 people living with diabetes have walked through our doors.

Are our outcomes good? Absolutely. We’ve shown that with the right motivation, education, and movement, Type 2 diabetes can improve. It’s not rocket science – it’s evidence-based care. Not only do glucose levels improve, but these improvements are sustained for up to two years.

Beyond blood sugars: The emotional impact

What’s been even more rewarding is the impact on emotional wellbeing. Participants report improvements in:

• quality of life
• depression and anxiety scores
• mobility and independence
• sleep and energy levels.

People are moving more freely, enjoying life again, and regaining control. This is why I became a nurse 38 years ago – to make a difference in people’s lives.

Looking ahead

The feedback has exceeded our expectations, and we’re now planning to expand. Our vision is for Diabetes Rehab to become a standard offering – available from the moment someone hears those life-changing words:

“I’m sorry to tell you, but it seems you have Type 2 diabetes…”

That moment should be the start of something new – not the end of something lost.

Let’s invite everyone to Refocusise – the start of the rest of their life.

To find out more about this initiative, visit Refocusise.