The NIHR Clinical Research Network North East and North Cumbria, together with the local research leads for diabetes, is setting up a community of practice for anybody who is interested in diabetes research.

Anybody who works in diabetes care is welcome, regardless of your job role or whether you work in primary care, secondary care, public health, in the community and other settings.

We aim to meet on a regular basis, giving everyone an opportunity to discuss the delivery of studies within the diabetes, metabolic and endocrine specialism. Come along to gain support and advice, or  share any knowledge that may interest others. The meetings have an open agenda which leaves room for discussion.

What is a community of practice?

Communities of practice are “groups of people who share a concern or a passion about a topic and who deepen their knowledge and expertise in this area y interacting on an ongoing basis [...] They get together because they find value in their interactions, as they spend time together, they typically share information, insight, and advice. [...] They also develop personal relationships and established ways of interacting. They may even develop a common sense of identity. They become a community of practice.” - Wenger et al, 2002.

I am interested. What do I do next?

Turn up and join in! You are welcome to contribute items of discussion to the meeting. We aim to foster a culture of respect, allowing all colleagues attending to have a voice and maintaining a safe space for discussion whilst aiming for a positive experience.

Please contact [email protected] if you would like to be added to the regular meetings.