Vulnerable people living in Melbourne will have better access to diabetes education thanks to a new partnership between Diabetes Australia and the Salvation Army.

As the national peak body, Diabetes Australia is joining with the Salvation Army in this critical initiative to support vulnerable people who are at risk of, or living with, diabetes.

This collaboration comes at a time when almost two million Australians are living with diagnosed and undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, and there are growing barriers to healthcare access among those experiencing homelessness.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said the partnership was about delivering essential diabetes care to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

“Diabetes is hurting our most vulnerable communities. It’s a condition that, if not managed, leads to devastating complications such as limb amputation, kidney disease, heart attack and vision loss,” Ms Cain said.

“Rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade, so we need new ideas and new partnerships that will make a tangible difference in people’s lives across Australia.

“As the national diabetes peak body, Diabetes Australia is committed to supporting all local communities impacted by diabetes across the country. During the next year, we are aiming to develop similar programs in other locations around Australia to ensure our most vulnerable get the support they need,” she said.

More than 2,500 people in the Melbourne region are living with type 2 diabetes, with statewide figures across Victoria showing more than 325,000 people are impacted by the condition.

Through the partnership, a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE) is attending the Magpie Nest Café in the Melbourne CBD each week and provides diabetes health services and information for people in the community experiencing significant vulnerability.

Salvation Army spokesperson Brendan Nottle said diabetes had become a growing concern for vulnerable communities in the area.

“Undiagnosed diabetes is an increasing issue amongst people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness. The partnership with Diabetes Australia is literally helping save lives,” Mr Nottle said.

“We are deeply indebted to Diabetes Australia and all our partners who are engaged in critical work with some of the most vulnerable people in our city. On many occasions, they are helping keep people alive.”