UNIVERSITY Hospitals Dorset has collaborated with Bournemouth Heart Club to educate those suffering from type two diabetes.

Sponsored by Sport England, ‘Refocusise’ trials created significant improvements in the physical and mental health of patients who attended the classes last year.

Now, the trials are returning at Bournemouth Heart Club.

Each course lasts eight weeks and consists of a pre and post-course health assessment and one-hour weekly exercise classes under the guidance of specialist instructors.

After the course, there is a Q&A session to offer professional advice on lifestyle, medicine, and diet to help those with diabetes manage their condition to the best of their ability.

Samantha Whittle is UHD’s diabetes specialist community nurse and project lead.

She said: “We were astounded by the results.

“Average blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and waist measurements were all significantly reduced.

“There were also improvements in blood pressure and most importantly, the course has equipped patients with the knowledge of exercising the cardiovascular system regularly and safely, leading to higher levels of physical motivation and mental wellbeing”.

“Feedback from patients on the first trial courses has also been extremely encouraging, and we are so pleased to be part of this successful collaboration between UHD and BHC, providing such a beneficial service for people with Type Two diabetes.

David Isaacs was one of the first patients to be enrolled in the programme.

He said: “The course completely changed my life to be honest, helping me to take control of my diabetes, and in turn, improve my lifestyle.

“Since completing the programme I’ve been going to the gym daily, walking more, and making better decisions with my diet.”

People living with Type 2 diabetes in Dorset can apply to join the 2024 Refocusise programme via a referral from their practice nurse or diabetes clinician.

Courses will run from the Bournemouth Heart Club at Royal Bournemouth Hospital throughout the coming year.