This World Diabetes Day (November 14), Bairnsdale and District Diabetes Support Group is raising awareness about the challenges of managing diabetes at work.
Some people living with diabetes face daily challenges in the workplace. Stigma, discrimination and exclusion can have a negative impact on their wellbeing.
Around four in five people experience diabetes stigma – feeling blamed or shamed because they live with diabetes.
Bairnsdale and District Diabetes Support Group convener, Brigitte Gibson, is calling on workplaces to raise awareness about the physical and mental challenges of all types of diabetes.
“Some people avoid managing their diabetes at work because they fear being judged,” she said.
“When people with diabetes feel safe and respected at work, they can manage their diabetes without fear or shame. This has a positive impact physically and emotionally.
“We encourage workplaces to have open conversations about diabetes and what steps they can take to support employees who live with all types of diabetes when they are at work.”
Almost 400,000 Victorians are living with diabetes, and a further 125,000 have undiagnosed diabetes.
While it is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia, diabetes is often misunderstood.
Diabetes Victoria offers a range of resources to support individuals with diabetes in the workplace.
These resources include booklets, posters, and educational materials that provide information on managing diabetes, workplace rights, and responsibilities.
Employers can access these resources to ensure a supportive and safe work environment for employees with diabetes.
