Pharmacists specialising in diabetes are being urged to become ‘clinical champions’ to help improve services in their area to deliver better care for people with the condition.

The successful two-year leadership programme run by Diabetes UK is recruiting a new cohort of clinicians to drive change across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The voluntary role runs for two years and includes a package of support and training.

Current clinical champions include consultants, GPs, nurses, dietitians, podiatrists and senior pharmacists. They are experienced in treating the complex needs of people with diabetes and are significantly improving care for people living with the disease.

Diabetes UK chief executive Chris Askew said: “There’s clear evidence that investment in better diabetes care is beneficial to people with diabetes and is cost effective. Effective services help people manage their diabetes well, reducing the number of devastating and costly health complications.”