Based in the University’s School of Sport Science & Physical Activity, the weekly sessions allow participants to get regular exercise and support to help them make healthy lifestyle changes, understand their condition and how to manage it better.

Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes is often caused by lifestyle choices, including being overweight and not getting enough exercise, and in most cases, it is preventable.

Five million people in England are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and if current trends persist, one in three people will be obese by 2034 and one in ten will develop type 2 diabetes.

The University collaborated with the Bedford branch of Diabetes UK and participants are referred to the clinic via their GP and the Lifestyle Hub.

Seventy-year-old Dave Ursell from Oakley, near Bedford, started coming to the clinic to get his diabetes under control and now has the energy to do things he found difficult before.

“The clinic has made a big difference to me. Just walking my dog used to be a struggle for me. But I recently re-laid my patio which I wouldn’t have been able to do before I came to the clinic. Now I have the strength and energy to do it,” said Dave.

Senior Lecturer Kev Wyld who leads the sessions, said: “Type 2 diabetes is fast becoming a big problem nationally so we’re delighted to be working with Diabetes UK to help diabetics in our community learn more about their condition and how they can effectively manage it themselves through exercise and a healthy diet.”

As well as helping the participants, the clinic gives students at the University the chance to get hands on experience of working with clients with complex medical needs and running sessions to help them achieve their goals.

Charlotte Stringer, who is studying an MSc in the Institute for Sport & Physical Activity Research (ISPAR) said: “I feel extremely proud to be part of this project. I look forward to hearing how patients have adopted the knowledge gained from the clinic to change their life styles. The positive impact this has had on patients’ lives so far has been inspiring and I look forward to seeing this clinic expand and develop to serve the Bedford community.”