A CASH crisis could force Bury Diabetic Support Group to disband after 60 years. 

An urgent appeal has now been launched by chairman Geoffrey Goldberg for sponsorship and donations in the hope that the group can continue to provide its programme of self help support and representation for diabetics, their families and carers.

Bury Diabetic Support Group is one of the largest organisations of its kind in the North West and has between 2,000 and 3,000 members. 

Its funding difficulties comes as new figures show that the number of people living with diabetes in the UK has increased by 60 per cent in the past decade, from 2.1 million to more than 3.3 million.

Commenting on the funding problems, Mr Goldberg said: “The group has only limited reserves and these are being used up rapidly to keep going. To operate on a proper and useful manner, it requires at least £3,000 per year. 

“Last year, the group was only granted £1,000 from Bury Council. I have just been told that its latest round of grant applications is oversubscribed and if we did get anything it would only be £500. It’s reached the stage where I’m having to dig into my own pocket.

"I’m afraid that under the present circumstances, we are now in danger of disbanding unless we can secure more money.

“As funds are always a big worry, and less is now available from regular sources, the group would like to ask any organisation, company or business if they would like to officially sponsor the group or could kindly consider a donation.”

The organisation was formed around 60 years and was initially attached to Diabetes UK before reverting to its present name 20 years ago.

Bury Diabetic Support Group is fully recognised by the NHS, both locally and nationally, Bury Healthwatch and Bury Council. 

Last year, Mr Goldberg received an award on behalf of the group for his charity work.

The organisation meets monthly in Bury Town Hall, courtesy of Bury Council, to which relevant speakers are invited. The meetings allow diabetics and carers to meet and discuss their many problems.

Mr Goldberg continued: “Throughout the year, the group attends many venues, organise workshops and sits on bodies that hold implications for diabetics.

"This year, we have held events for the public and in June the workshop on driving requirements as expressed by the DVLA was very well attended. All services are free for users and all our work is performed by volunteers.”

On the fundraising appeal, Mr Goldberg said that the group would consider including any company logo or name to be added to its events and materials.

Anyone who would like to offer sponsorship or donations can call 0161 796 5165 or e-mail burydiabetic100@yahoo.co.uk