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FWD UK
FWD UK
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What We Do

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“Behind Closed Doors, We Open Hope”

Supporting the Charedi Jewish Community
Living with Diabetes

Friends with Diabetes is a grassroots initiative with a very focused mission: to reach the children and families most at risk—and most overlooked—when it comes to diabetes support. While many charities do amazing work in diabetes care, we serve those who often remain out of reach: members of the strictly observant Jewish (Charedi) community of London, where cultural boundaries, religious restrictions, and limited access to the internet create deep and lasting healthcare gaps.

We are not a mainstream service. We are a bridge. A quiet, consistent presence behind closed doors where help is needed most—but rarely seen. Here are some of the services that we provide:

  • We provide confidential, culturally sensitive advice from professionals who speak the language and understand the way of life. We listen without judgment.
  • Our materials are printed, translated, and delivered in-person—no online access needed. We meet people where they are, in every sense.
  • From arranging kosher-friendly diabetic meal plans, to navigating NHS services discreetly, to helping families find medical devices that align with halachic guidelines, we take care of the details so families can focus on their children.
  • We work with local rabbanim (rabbis), teachers, and community leaders to raise awareness—quietly, respectfully, and effectively.
  • Diabetes doesn’t take a break on holy days. Neither do we. We provide guidance tailored to the calendar and customs of each family.
Why We’re Different

These days, most health advice is online. Most services expect people to talk openly. Most campaigns are made to be seen. But in the Charedi community, staying private is often more important than being visible.
Many of these families live just minutes from some of the best hospitals in the world—but because of religious rules, language differences, fear of being judged, or a strong need for privacy, many children don’t get the help they need

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 Nearly 100 initiatives launched—each one designed to support, educate, and empower those living with diabetes.
From schools to community centres, we’ve brought support directly to 65 locations where it’s needed most.
We operate year-round in London and Manchester, with additional summer programmes delivered in selected locations across the UK.

Swift Support

Making Every Step Count

Since 2023, FWD has been working behind the scenes to improve the way diabetes care is delivered—making it faster, smoother, and more accessible for everyone.

We partner with clinics, healthcare teams, and community providers to streamline care pathways. From reducing wait times to avoiding repeat tests, our goal is simple: to make sure no one falls through the cracks.

By improving coordination and reducing delays, we help ensure that each person’s journey—from symptoms to diagnosis, from treatment to long-term support—is as efficient and stress-free as possible.

What We Deliver:

Faster Diagnosis

We help speed up access to essential tests, reducing delays in identifying diabetes and allowing for quicker intervention.

Quicker Referrals

By working directly with clinics, we fast-track urgent cases to the right professionals—ensuring timely specialist care.

Timely Treatment

Early action leads to better outcomes. We support healthcare teams to start treatment without unnecessary hold-ups.

Healthcare Partnerships

We collaborate closely with local providers to improve communication, coordination, and consistency across services.

Better Outcomes

Our streamlined approach leads to earlier management, fewer complications, and stronger long-term health.

Accessible Support

We help bridge the gap for communities facing cultural, language, or systemic barriers—and for those waiting too long for NHS care.
Swift support isn’t just about speed—it’s about removing obstacles so people can get the care they need, when they need it.
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Helping since

Driven by Care

  • Published 8 culturally sensitive weekly articles across the community, featuring diabetes education, carb-counting tips, emotional wellbeing guidance, and expert input from senior diabetes specialists—also used as resource packs for newly diagnosed individuals and families.
  • Hosted a Diabetes Awareness Open Day in partnership with other health charities. Over 200 people attended, including individuals with diabetes, parents, carers, and health professionals.
  • Provided personalised support to over 250 individuals and families—offering practical advice, emotional support, medical referrals, help with appointment bookings, hospital advocacy, translation, transport, special dietary arrangements, and ongoing care guidance.
  • Delivered cultural training and awareness materials to over 30 diabetes care professionals—including consultants, nurses, and dietitians—across multiple hospitals in London and Manchester.
  • Created an emergency access point for essential diabetes supplies, including glucose testing kits, hypo treatments, and insulin pen needles—available around the clock for urgent cases.
  • Set up a buddy and peer-support service to connect people living with diabetes with others facing similar experiences, helping reduce isolation and build confidence in self-management.
  • Currently forming a Medical Advisory Board with doctors, endocrinologists, dietitians, and other experts in diabetes care to guide and strengthen our work.

 

Expanding Our Support

FWD is working to ease the daily challenges of living with diabetes by offering:

  • Free or subsidised hospital transport
  • Therapeutic and wellbeing activities
  • Culturally suitable diabetes-friendly meals
  • Respite breaks for families and carers
  • Essential home equipment support
  • Help with benefits and finances
  • Cover for urgent medical costs
  • Access to second opinions and mental health support
“Behind Closed Doors, We Open Hope”

Supporting the Charedi Jewish Community Living with Diabetes

Friends with Diabetes is a grassroots initiative with a very focused mission: to reach the children and families most at risk—and most overlooked—when it comes to diabetes support. While many charities do amazing work in diabetes care, we serve those who often remain out of reach: members of the strictly observant Jewish (Charedi) community of London, where cultural boundaries, religious restrictions, and limited access to the internet create deep and lasting healthcare gaps.

We are not a mainstream service. We are a bridge. A quiet, consistent presence behind closed doors where help is needed most—but rarely seen. Here are some of the services that we provide:

  • We provide confidential, culturally sensitive advice from professionals who speak the language and understand the way of life. We listen without judgment.
  • Our materials are printed, translated, and delivered in-person—no online access needed. We meet people where they are, in every sense.
  • From arranging kosher-friendly diabetic meal plans, to navigating NHS services discreetly, to helping families find medical devices that align with halachic guidelines, we take care of the details so families can focus on their children.
  • We work with local rabbanim (rabbis), teachers, and community leaders to raise awareness—quietly, respectfully, and effectively.
  • Diabetes doesn’t take a break on holy days. Neither do we. We provide guidance tailored to the calendar and customs of each family.
Why We’re Different

These days, most health advice is online. Most services expect people to talk openly. Most campaigns are made to be seen. But in the Charedi community, staying private is often more important than being visible.

Many of these families live just minutes from some of the best hospitals in the world—but because of religious rules, language differences, fear of being judged, or a strong need for privacy, many children don’t get the help they need.
 Parents may feel confused, alone, or unsure of what to do.

FWD Puts People First

We work with real families, one-on-one, to help them feel supported, informed, and in control of their health choices.
Because when support is thoughtful and care is personal, change isn’t just possible — it’s life-changing.

Why It Matters

Every child deserves a chance to live a healthy, joyful life—no matter their background, beliefs, or access to technology. In the charred community, managing diabetes can be a hidden struggle. Some families don’t know where to turn. Some are afraid to speak. Some simply don’t have the tools.

Friends with Diabetes is here to say: There is help, even if it comes quietly. There is knowledge, even if it’s passed from hand to hand. And there is hope—always.

Our Work Includes

At FWD, we know that diabetes doesn’t just affect individuals—it impacts families, communities, and daily life in ways that aren’t always obvious. That’s why our approach is holistic, practical, and rooted in real-life support. Here’s how each part of our work makes a difference:

  • Tailored Programs for Both Children and Adults
    No two people experience diabetes the same way. That’s why we create personalised support for different age groups, stages of life, and cultural needs. Whether it’s a child learning to manage Type 1 at school or an adult newly diagnosed with Type 2, our programs are designed to meet people where they are—with tools that actually fit into their lives.
  • Family-Friendly Activity Days to Encourage Inclusion
    Diabetes can be isolating, especially for children who feel “different” from their peers. Our events give families a chance to connect in a safe, welcoming environment. Kids make friends who “get it,” and parents find support in others walking a similar path. These days aren’t just fun—they build community, boost confidence, and remind everyone that they’re not alone.
  • Educational Workshops on Managing Diabetes
    Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to managing a lifelong condition. Our workshops help people understand their diabetes—not just medically, but practically. We talk about food, stress, exercise, medication, and what to do when things go off track. It’s education that builds real-world confidence and long-term health.
  • One-on-One Guidance for Newly Diagnosed Individuals
    Getting diagnosed with diabetes can feel overwhelming. Questions pile up, fear sets in, and it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why we offer personal support from day one. Whether it’s helping by reading a food label, figuring out insulin, or just talking through the emotional impact, we walk alongside people until they feel steady on their feet.
  • Community Outreach through Schools, Flyers, and Local Events
    We believe in meeting people where they are—whether that’s in a classroom, a café, or a local community centre. Our outreach helps raise awareness, catch symptoms early, and connect people with help before a crisis hits. It’s about opening doors and starting conversations in spaces that feel familiar and trusted.
Together, these services don’t just manage diabetes—they change lives. By supporting individuals and building connected communities, we’re creating a healthier future for everyone involved.

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