A NEW scheme to help tackle Type 2 diabetes has been launched in Yorkshire.

To mark Diabetes Prevention Week, the NHS launched the Healthier You: Diabetes Prevention Programme, which trials new digital health technology to help people roll back their risk of developing the disease.

Humber, Coast and Vale is one of eight pilot areas selected to test digital interventions to tackle Type 2 diabetes, with Liva Healthcare chosen as the provider, and GP surgeries in York, Hull, Withersea, North Yorkshire and Malton are taking part.

The scheme gives patients access, via an app, to their own dedicated health coach, online peer support groups, video consultations, as well as the ability to set and monitor lifestyle goals electronically. The personal health coach helps patients stay on track and set a personalised plan to make healthier lifestyle choices, decreasing their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Andrew Green from Sherburn, near Malton, said is one of the patients taking part, and said: "I went to the doctors for a check-up, including a blood test, and found that my blood sugar levels were steadily going up. Because of that, I wanted to put it right. The nurse recommended this new trial.

"That was six weeks ago and I haven’t looked back. I don’t want to be a diabetic and I want to get healthier. I want to bring my blood sugar down and being on the programme has changed my lifestyle. I’ve got to 50 and I want to keep going. Having a personal health coach has really helped me along the journey. It’s given me a helping hand in the right direction."

To find out more, go to campaignresources.phe.gov.uk/resources/campaigns/72-diabetes-prevention-week/overview