THE number of people with diabetes in Halton is expected to rise to 10, 671 by the year 2035.

Latest figures show the borough's figures are 1.5 per cent higher than the national average.

Yet attendance at Halton type 2 diabetes sessions are among the lowest in the country.

Halton Clinical Commissioning Group and the Countess of Chester have teamed up to help people to manage their condition with a new practical initiative.

Diabetes Essentials is a one off, free, two-and-a-half hour information session available at community venues in Runcorn and Widnes.

The sessions are informal and give an overview of type 2 diabetes as well as practical information on how to manage the condition.

The Diabetes Essentials team want to empower people to take control and fight diabetes.

Ellen Mitchell, a Diabetes Essentials dietitian, said: "The people of Halton place a high value on their health but unfortunately they often need more support to be able to achieve healthy outcomes.

"This all starts with a bit of knowledge and that’s where we can help.

"Only 38.7 per cent of people in Runcorn and Widnes are achieving all of their treatment targets for blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure so we know there is a lot of scope to change things."

Halton Transport is displaying posters on the inside of their buses highlighting how people can get involved with Diabetes Essentials and learn more about managing their condition.

Ellen added: "We are really grateful for their support in delivering this important message."

To book into a free session call 01244 365234 or email diabetes.essentials@nhs.net.