YOUNG people suffering from a type of diabetes have met with Ludlow MP Philip Dunne.

The MP who has a personal interest in the disease met young people living with Type one diabetes at a major Houses of Parliament event to discuss the impact of this serious and complex condition.

Sixty children and young adults that live with the condition were chosen to attend Type one Parliament by JDRF – the global type one diabetes charity. They volunteered from across the country to represent their constituencies.

The exact cause of Type one diabetes is unclear, but in contrast to Type two diabetes it is not linked to lifestyle or diet.

A child diagnosed with Type one at the age of five faces up to 19,000 insulin injections and 50,000 finger prick tests by the time they are 18.

The condition affects 400,000 people in the UK – equivalent to more than 600 people in each constituency such as Ludlow – and incidence is growing rapidly, particularly in those under five years old.

Mr Dunne, who has long supported increased diabetes awareness, said:

“Type one diabetes can have a tremendous effect on young people’s lives as well as their families,” said Philip Dunne who has been a long time supporter of increased diabetes awareness.

The cause of Type one remains unclear, but it is important that we support research to help cure this disease and support those living with diabetes.

It was a pleasure to meet young people in Parliament who spoke candidly about the effect living with Type one diabetes has had on their lives."

JDRF exists to find the cure for Type one diabetes and its complications, and is the world’s leading Type one diabetes research charity.

At a global level, JDRF volunteers and staff have been responsible for raising over £1 billion to support Type 1 diabetes research, since the charity’s inception. More information can be found at www.jdrf.org.uk

Caption: Philip Dunne with Robert Herrett