Simon Sparks is our type 2 diabetic mentor. He blends formal diabetes education and knowledge with his lived experience as a type 2 diabetic. His own diabetic journey prompted his study and work in supporting people who struggle with managing the condition in everyday life.
At the time of diagnosis, he found that there was very little help. Yes, there was NHS medication supplied and annual reviews, but nobody sat and explained the condition and the impact. Nobody spent time working with his lifestyle and to give him practical realistic ways of making changes. He was sent to a diabetic group meeting by his GP where the advice was more focused on weight loss and not managing glucose. At this event, the nurse told the group they can eat porridge, have a glass of orange juice and jacket potatoes. Even today he keeps the published booklet showing foods he was told he can eat as a diabetic that is scientifically and factually incorrect.
He understands the frustrations and the challenges with trying to get to grips with diabetes. The mood swings, the highs and lows, the impact to family and friends. He uses practical work and as a trained counsellor he can sit with you and hear your story and the impact it is having on your life.
He reduced his glucose from 120 to 60 in a year and maintains an average HbA1c of 48. As a by-product of glucose management his weight loss is over 10 stone from initial diagnosis.
Simon has helped many people, by understanding their lifestyle and specific problem areas. Uses education to share information that is applicable to them, adapts a programme that gets results by a reduction in glucose levels. He keeps in daily contact with his clients and mentors them in decision making fostering a healthy accountability where clients feel supported.
Level 3 Diploma in the Effective Management of Diabetes
Level 3 Certificate in Therapeutic Counselling
Level 3 Certificate in Education & Training
Qualified Mental Health First Aid England
Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service)
Registered tutor with the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body
Fees for Simon vary depending on the chosen programme of support:
4 week kickstart – for newly diagnosed - £200
4 week re-boot – diagnosed over a year and struggling to manage - £200
12 week HbA1c prep – a plan to significantly reduce the HbA1c score - £350
One off coaching and mentoring sessions - £35 per hour
You can book some time with Simon directly by emailing [email protected]
