Supporting Students with Diabetes

Recognising When They Need Help

A small number of our students live with type 1 diabetes. While they are usually able to manage their condition independently, there may be times when they experience symptoms that require immediate support.

One of the most common issues is hypoglycaemia (a ‘hypo’), which occurs when blood glucose levels drop too low. Symptoms vary from person to person, but signs you might notice include:

• Shakiness
• Confusion
• Sweating
• Anxiety or irritability
• Pale complexion
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Tingling lips
• Blurred vision
• Hunger
• Tearfulness
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Difficulty concentrating

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If a student tells you they are experiencing a hypo, stay with them while they treat it. They will know what to do and usually carry what they need to manage it. Your role is to ensure they are safe and supported until their blood glucose levels return to normal.

If the student is unable to treat the hypo themselves or becomes unresponsive, call 999 immediately. Their student ID card contains important information for emergency services—please refer to it when making the call.

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