The paediatric diabetes team at the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool has received the prestigious Investing in Children Membership Award after an independent evaluation involving children and young people aged 8 to 18 years who use the service.
The evaluation found that young patients feel listened to, involved in decisions about their care and well supported by staff. Families praised the team’s personalised approach, clear communication and commitment to helping children manage their diabetes with confidence.
Feedback from patients has directly shaped several service improvements, including monthly evening clinics, more flexible appointment options, telephone consultations, psychology support groups, parent support sessions, and enhanced assessments for children considering insulin pump therapy. The service has also introduced questionnaires to identify barriers to care, including transport challenges, neurodivergent needs and transition concerns.
The award recognises the team’s strong culture of listening, shared decision-making and partnership working with children, young people and families to continually improve diabetes care.
Note: The published evaluation highlights the age range of participants and examples of service improvements but does not provide numerical satisfaction scores or percentages.
Read the full story: Children say they “feel listened to” as local diabetes team secures respected award.
