14/11/2025
Today is World Diabetes Day, which takes place each year on the 14th November and is a global moment to raise awareness and drive action for people living with diabetes. This year’s theme, Support for diabetes in the workplace, highlights a significant fact: 7 in 10 people with diabetes are of working age.
Regular diabetic eye screening is vital for early detection of changes that could impact daily life, safety, and work performance. Employers play an essential role in supporting staff to attend their screening appointments without stress or barriers.
1. Promote Awareness
Help staff understand the purpose of screening: early detection saves sight. Consider sharing internal messages, posters, or reminders during national awareness events such as World Diabetes Day.
2. Encourage Safe and Confidential Conversations
Employees may not always feel comfortable discussing their diabetes. Provide a supportive, confidential environment where staff can share adjustments they may need.
3. Allow Time Off for Screening
Allow reasonable paid time off for employees to attend, especially since dilation eye drops may temporarily affect their vision.
4. Provide Role-Specific Adjustments After Screening
Following dilation drops, some employees may experience blurred vision for several hours. Consider temporary adjustments such as avoiding driving tasks, machine operation, or visually demanding duties on the day of screening.
5. Share Useful Information
Provide staff with easy access to local diabetic eye screening service information.
6. Foster a Supportive Workplace Culture
A workplace that openly supports health and wellbeing improves morale and staff retention. Small actions—awareness messages, flexible scheduling, or signposting to resources—can make a significant difference.
