Type1 Diabetes Peer Supporter (T1PS). NHS Borders Case Study.

In 2019 a new role was developed and approved in NHS Borders to support Type 1 Diabetes patients.

Type1 Diabetes Peer Supporter (T1PS) volunteers are supported by the Lead Diabetes Specialist Nurse who identifies patients and families that require peer support.   This is the first role of its type in Scotland for supporting Type 1 Diabetics.

Initially this role was developed to support patients and their families in a variety of different settings within the community and hospital.  Processes and guides were established and risk assessments carried out. The pilot programme was due to commence using improvement methodology, when COVID-19 struck.

However, NHS Borders has adapted the concept and are currently testing virtual peer support using mobile phones.  In addition NHS Borders is investigating the use of iPads with the ‘near me’ secure link to support the programme in further developing a virtual model to cope with current circumstances.

More information will become available in the coming weeks.