Type 1 diabetes

diagnosed with the condition. The Diabetes UK website enables you to find your local diabetes support group . If you want to contact a trained counsellor directly	 you can phone Diabetes UKs care line on 0345 123 2399	 or email helpline.scotland@diabetes.org.uk Further information on Helpline Scotland Financial support and benefits Some people with diabetes may be eligible to receive disability benefits and incapacity benefits	 depending on the impact the condition has on their life. The main groups likely to qualify for welfare benefits are children	 elderly people	 people with learning disabilities or mental health problems	 and those with complications of diabetes . People over 65 who are severely disabled	 may qualify for a type of disability benefit called Attendance Allowance. Carers may also be entitled to some benefit too	 depending on their involvement in caring for the person with diabetes. Staff at your local Citizens Advice Scotland can check whether youre getting all of the benefits youre entitled to. Both they and your diabetes specialist nurse should also be able to give you advice about filling in the forms. Driving with diabetes Its a common myth that people with diabetes arent allowed to drive anymore. Although there are some restrictions on drivers with diabetes its not as severe as you may think. You should always tell your insurer that you are diabetic as this may affect your insurance claim. Only individuals who use insulin have to tell the DVLA that they have diabetes. A high majority of individuals who use insulin can carry on driving on a restricted licence. This usually has to be renewed every 3 years. Additional restictions may apply for different licences (e.g Group 2 HGV) so always refer to the DVLA guidelines . Unfortunately some individuals do lose their driving license most commonly due to experiencing severe hypos or being unable to recognise symptoms of a hypo (hypo unawareness). To prevent hypos whilst driving you should check your blood glucose levels before driving keep medication close by in the car take regular breaks on long journeys over 2 hours avoid missing meals