A Ravenshead man who campaigns and volunteers tirelessly for Diabetes UK has received a special award from the charity.
Jeff Clarke, 65, from Ravenshead, has volunteered for the charity for five years, and works tirelessly to improve diabetes care in his local community and across the county.
Jeff was presented with the Diabetes UK East Midlands Inspire Award for Campaigning and Influencing.
He has campaigned for better healthcare services, and challenged poor care when he comes across it. His support covers an array of vital issues that include reaching people at risk of type 2 diabetes, working on footcare pathways to reduce variance of care, and improving access to structured education.
Jeff, who has been married for 38 years, and has just passed 36 years since being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, completed Diabetes UK’s patient leader programme after retiring as a civil engineer after 40 years.
He said: “I have been able to promote the patient’s perspective in various Nottinghamshire and East Midland Steering Groups where strategic health decisions are made. I’m particularly enthusiastic about the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
“While we are trying to improve overall care for people with diabetes, there is no greater satisfaction than seeing people reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.”
Peter Shorrick, Diabetes UK Midlands and East Regional Head, said: “Jeff is a real professional in the way he conducts himself and is a true asset to Diabetes UK, but more importantly to the community as a whole.
“He has made a good and long lasting positive impact on diabetes care in his local community and he thoroughly deserves this award.
“Our volunteers and fundraisers are out there working hard in the community day in and day out. Our much-needed work wouldn’t be possible without their incredible support and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of our volunteers for the enormous difference they make every day.”
The Inspire Awards celebrate Diabetes UK’s dedicated volunteers who campaign to improve the quality of care available to people with diabetes; fundraise for pioneering research; raise awareness to stem the rising tide of diabetes; and provide vital peer support and connection to others living with all types of diabetes within their local communities.
To find out more about becoming a volunteer for Diabetes UK, or to join a local support group, please email midlands@diabetes.org.uk or call 01922 614500.
