MANY young people in Barry and across the Vale of Glamorgan will be getting ready to start university this month.

This is a big change and can be daunting, especially if you’re living with a lifelong medical condition like Type 1 diabetes.

As well as all the usual concerns about leaving home for the first time, making friends and starting your studies, young people with Type 1 diabetes may have some extra concerns.

It can seem overwhelming to stay in control of your blood glucose levels alongside a new university routine and lifestyle, tell new friends what might happen if you have a hypo, and think about the effects of drinking and stress on your condition.

But with the right preparation and support there is no reason why people living with diabetes can’t live student life to the full. First things first, make sure you register at your local GP surgery or university health centre so that you will have access to healthcare professional advice when you need it.

Also, visit the Diabetes UK website where you will find lots of helpful tips, from how to store your insulin in a shared fridge, to dealing with the stress of studying and making sure your new friends are aware of your condition.

There are also some brilliant recipes for even the thriftiest of student budgets on our website – diabetes.org.uk/enjoyfood.

Starting university if you have Type 1 diabetes doesn’t have to be stressful so make sure you’re prepared and if you need any more advice you can give our helpline a call on 0345 123 2399.

Good luck on your new adventure.

Dai Williams

Director of Diabetes UK Cymru