Upcoming Event To Examine Availability Of Local Footcare Services

A Bury-based support group and local law firm are coming together to host a workshop where the current availability of footcare services for diabetic patients in the North West will be discussed.

The Bury Diabetic Support Group and the Manchester office of Irwin Mitchell are hosting the event at Bury Carers on July 10th following concerns that Pennine Care are no longer offering a toe nail cutting service for those who have diabetes.

Nail cutting is hugely important for diabetic patients as it helps to minimise risk of infection and, with recent research suggesting there are 150 amputations per month nationally due to diabetes, the issue is more important than ever.

The upcoming event will not only include an examination of the service available to diabetes sufferers in Bury, but also feature a talk from guest speaker Sandra Barnett of Pennine Care.

Mark Havenhand, a Partner at Irwin Mitchell’s Manchester office, said: 

Expert Opinion

“It is concerning to learn that Pennine Care is no longer able to offer footcare services, so this event is all about ensuring local diabetic patients are informed on what is out there.

“Footcare is hugely important to those with the condition and it is not uncommon for vulnerable patients to go on to develop issues and ultimately need amputation. We would urge anyone concerned by the issue to attend and learn more about the services which are available.” Mark Havenhand - Partner

Geoffrey Goldberg from the Bury Diabetic Support Group has said: “Since the letter has been sent to patients the Trust have now clarified that their original letter should have included mention that toe nail cutting should still be available for chronic cases.  This is step in the right direction, but much still needs to be done”

The workshop is being held on July 10th from 1pm to 3.30pm at Bury Carers, Victoria Buildings, Silver Street, Bury, BL9 0EU. For more information on the event ring 0161 796 5165 or email burydiabetic100@yahoo.co.uk.