Diabetes Youth NZ Inc is a voluntary society established to provide support for children with diabetes and their families.

Diabetes Youth New Zealand (DYNZ) was established in 1991 and is affiliated to Diabetes New Zealand. There are networks of youth support groups located throughout New Zealand that assist DYNZ to provide support. DYNZ also provides:

Advocacy

DYNZ advocates on behalf of all young people with diabetes. Recent projects have included submissions to Pharmac for medication supply and subsidies (Lantus, Levemir and Blood Ketone Strips) and involvement with the Ministry of Education for school health guidelines.  DYNZ Camping Guidelines have been updated and are currently awaiting NZSSD approval.

Resources

We provide a parent's manual; Caring for Children and Adolescents and a Diabetes Information School Flip Chart. These manuals are now included in all newly diagnosed packs that are distributed throughout the country but are also available to purchase at a very reasonable cost.

Achievement Awards

The John McLaren Award for Excellence is a joint venture between Diabetes Youth New Zealand and Diabetes New Zealand from a bequest from John McLaren to be used for the youth of New Zealand with diabetes. There are four achievers annually: each receiving a one-off amount of $1,000.

John McLaren Award for Excellence 2010 application form (PDF, 80KB)

Christchurch teens with diabetes at Wainui camp in early 2007

Support

The diabetes youth groups located throughout the country assist us in providing the support needed to enhance the lives of young people with diabetes. Diabetes Camps and the wide range of activities organised by these groups are a great place for young people with diabetes to meet others.