Grosvenor Rowing Club debuts inclusive diabetes Learn to Row programme
Grosvenor are excited to welcome their participants and look forward to seeing the positive impact this innovative programme will have both on and off the water
Grosvenor Rowing Club has launched its new Diabetes Learn to Row Programme, made possible through the support of British Rowing and the Love Rowing Changing Lives Together Fund.
The programme has been developed to reduce the barriers that can prevent young people living with diabetes from participating in sport and physical activity. While exercise is recognised as an important part of diabetes management, many young people and their families can feel anxious about taking part due to concerns around blood glucose management, hypoglycaemia, and a lack of understanding from coaches and peers. Grosvenor’s aim is to create an environment where diabetes is understood, supported and never seen as a barrier to participation.
The motivation behind the project comes from a few club members with pre-existing knowledge and skills working in diabetes. Vice Chair Ellen Mitchell said “As we have a few club members with the knowledge and skills about diabetes, we thought it would be a really meaningful project.”
“It has been a real insight into the challenges people with diabetes face”
As part of the project, Grosvenor has delivered diabetes awareness training for coaches and club members, helping to increase understanding and confidence across the club. They have also enhanced our first aid provision, ensuring appropriate hypo treatments are readily available during training sessions and events.
The programme has been designed with inclusion at its heart. Session plans will be shared in advance where possible, allowing participants to make any adjustments to their diabetes technology, insulin or nutrition plans before training. Scheduled breaks will be incorporated into sessions so participants can check glucose levels, hydrate and fuel without feeling self-conscious or needing to ask permission. Coaches are encouraged to normalise these practices and to support athletes when they need to pause, treat a hypo, or make adjustments to their diabetes management.
Subsidised places have been created within our existing Learn to Row courses, enabling participants to join alongside friends and peers. This helps create a welcoming environment while promoting integration into the wider rowing community.
The project also provides an important social opportunity. For many young people, this may be the first time they have met others living with diabetes outside a medical setting. Through shared experiences, participants can build confidence, friendships and hopefully, a sense of belonging.
Alongside rowing instruction, participants will have access to education based on current evidence for diabetes and exercise, supported by NHS healthcare professionals from our local hospital. The programme aligns closely with the 7 Principles of Inclusive Practice for People with Diabetes in Sport and Exercise Settings and reflects Grosvenor Rowing Club’s commitment to making rowing accessible to everyone.
Vice Chair of the club Ellen Mitchell said “Improving access to sport for people living with diabetes has recently been highlighted in a parliamentary debate, and this project gives Grosvenor an exciting opportunity to put those recommendations and expert advice into practice in club setting. We hope to increase awareness, educate members and help shape the future around long term conditions to make the sport more inclusive.”
