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Overview

Berkshire Healthcare has been named X-PERT Organisation of the Year, alongside being joint winner for Greatest Improvement in HbA1c at six months, recognising the impact of its structured Type 2 diabetes education programme.

The award is based on audited clinical outcomes submitted nationally and reflects more than a decade of consistent delivery across Berkshire.

Supporting people to live well with Type 2 diabetes

The X-PERT programme is a structured, evidence-based education course for people with Type 2 diabetes. Delivered by trained facilitators, it consists of six interactive sessions (15 hours in total) designed to help people understand their condition and build confidence in managing their health.

The most recent results show:

  • An average HbA1c reduction of -13.6 mmol/mol
  • Strong improvements across key health measures
  • Positive outcomes in diverse communities
  • 95% average satisfaction from participants
  • Continued year-on-year improvement

HbA1c reduction refers to lowering the percentage of glycated haemoglobin in the blood. HbA1c is a key indicator of how well diabetes is being managed over time. Lowering it significantly reduces the risk of serious long-term complications.

This means these outcomes represent meaningful improvements in people’s health and wellbeing.

A programme that has evolved with the community

Berkshire Healthcare has delivered X-PERT in Berkshire West since 2013 and now runs the programme county-wide, both face-to-face and online.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the team transitioned to online delivery within weeks of lockdown, ensuring people could continue accessing structured diabetes education and support.

In Berkshire West, the Trust also offers a shorter course, DEAL, providing flexible options to suit individual needs.

How to access structured education

For people with Type 2 diabetes, X-PERT and DEAL programmes are delivered in community venues across the county. Referrals are made through your GP practice.

If you're interested in joining a course, please speak to your GP.