Volunteer Spotlight - November 2024 - Peter Jackson

Peter began volunteering at Diabetes UK in early 2024, supporting the work of the Northern Ireland team. For him, this felt like a natural progression and the next stage in his journey since his diagnosis with type 2 diabetes back in 2021. Peter was incredibly grateful for the encouragement and support he received from the South Eastern Trust and the remission peer support group, and he felt giving back something through volunteering would be quite fitting.

Peter reflected on how the staff within the Northern Ireland team discussed volunteering opportunities without any pressure. With his curiosity piqued, Peter stepped into the world of volunteering, enjoying interactions with others and seeing it as a great opportunity to help people.

Connection and inspiration

During his time so far as a volunteer, Peter noted how the people he has met along the way have been highly motivating – from healthcare professionals and the Diabetes UK Northern Ireland team, to members of the remission group and Live Well Hubs. Meeting others and hearing their stories is one of his key highlights – having that contact with like-minded people gave Peter the encouragement to give something back.

Peter thoroughly enjoys his interactions with the Northern Ireland team, inspired by their enthusiasm and professionalism. For him, his experience as a volunteer has given him a fresh focus, following nearly seven years of retirement. Peter says he’s particularly proud to have the opportunity to be part of something personal and helpful to others, as well as to his own health.

Volunteering highlights

So far in his volunteering journey, Peter has provided fantastic support to the Northern Ireland team, particularly by supporting the launches of the Belfast, Lisburn, and Mid Ulster Live Well Hubs. He feels a strong connection with others at the hubs, learning a great deal from their stories and hoping that sharing his experiences was also helpful for them to hear.

Earlier this year, Peter also had the opportunity to visit Stormont, Northern Ireland’s Parliament buildings, meeting the Health Minister on both occasions and sharing his diabetes remission story at the Live Well Hub celebration event in June. Speaking at this event was a particularly proud moment for Peter, where he felt his story offered first-hand experience of what may be achievable for others. He noted that if he could do it, many other people could do the same and that the encouragement he received from his family was invaluable throughout his journey.

"The Live Well Hubs, volunteer meetings, and just listening to people living with diabetes and hearing from the speakers at events gives me great encouragement to do more. The team aspect is something I really enjoy, and there is great support from everyone."

Plans for the future

Peter looks forward to continuing his support for Diabetes UK’s work in Northern Ireland, attending as many events as possible. As part of this, he hopes to develop his confidence to become a speaker volunteer where he’ll then be able to present to businesses and organisations throughout the region.

Peter hopes that sharing his story will help others realise that there are steps they can take, that support is available, and that remission may be possible for some people with type 2 diabetes depending on their circumstances. Peter encourages everyone to consider volunteering, no matter what stage of life they’re in.

If you feel inspired to volunteer, search our volunteer opportunities, talk to your local team, meet the people who are living with diabetes and listen to their stories. As Peter says, “put your intention into action and just go for it!”