Midcheshire Independent Issue 190

5 APRIL 2026 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk Advertiser’sannouncement IN the heart of Stockport, a powerful collaboration is help- ing local people take control of their health. Slimming World groups across the area are supporting the national partnership between Slimming World and Diabetes UK - bringing together expertise in weight management, nutrition and diabetes care to support those living with, or at risk of, diabetes. Diabetes is a growing concern locally. In Stockport: ● Around one in 16 residents are living with diabetes ● That equates to nearly 20,000 people diagnosed with the condition ● Overall prevalence sits at around 7.2 per cent of the population ● Thousands more are estimated to be undiagnosed and at risk This UK-wide partnership focuses on helping people with pre-diabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes manage their weight and improve their long-term health through realistic, sustain- able changes. By combining Slimming World’s decades of experience in behaviour change with Diabetes UK’s clinical expertise, members gain access to co-developed recipes, educational resources and tailored support designed specifically for diabe- tes-friendly living. At the centre of Slimming World’s approach is Food Optimis- ing - a flexible, balanced way of eating that fits seamlessly along- side medical advice and individ- ual needs. The plan’s emphasis on filling, low-energy-density foods helps sta- bilise blood sugar levels, while still allowing flexibility for individual carbohydrate needs - something that can be tailored with support from a consultant and health- care team. Importantly, Slimming World encourages all members with diabetes to work alongside their healthcare professionals, ensuring the approach complements medical treatment safely. Hazel Grove consultant Jane says: “I’ve been diabetic for 21 years and after losing 7.5 stone with Slimming World, my diabetes has been in remission now for five years. I have eight members who were pre-diabetic and are now in normal ranges.” Whether you’re at risk of diabe- tes or already living with it, Food Optimising offers a way forward that’s practical, supportive and built to last. Contact your local con- sultant now for more information. A healthier future starts here STAFF at East Cheshire NHS Trust, observing the holy month of Rama- dan, hosted an Iftar event at Maccles- field District Gen- eral Hospital. It offered colleagues an opportunity to expe- rience Ramadan and help raise funds for local charitable causes. Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world as a time of grat- itude, reflection, prayer and spiritual growth. During this sacred month, Muslims fast each day from dawn until sunset, refraining from food and drink as an act of devotion and self-discipline. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal known as Iftar, which is traditionally shared with family, friends and the wider community. The Trust’s Iftar was held in the Tree Tops Restaurant at the hospital and featured a three-course meal, providing colleagues with an opportunity to enjoy an evening of fellowship and shared understanding. The event began with a short welcome, followed by an intro- duction to Ramadan from Lutfi Suleiman, consultant anaesthe- tist, and a brief prayer led by Ziad Al Khaddar, general surgeon. Sara Nausheen, Con- sultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Clin- ical lead, who organised the event, said: “Our col- leagues were invited, if they wished, to fast for the day to gain a small insight and to share more fully in the spirit and experience of Ramadan. “It was heartening to see so many take up the challenge while contin- uing their day-to-day clinical duties. “We are incredibly proud of them for show- ing such solidarity. It is little wonder that the evening meal – complete with delicious sweet treats, including spe- cial Ramadan cakes prepared by Jabeen Razzaq-Sheikh, princi- pal pharmacist – was so warmly appreciated.” In keeping with the values of generosity and compassion that lie at the heart of Ramadan, guests were invited to support two chosen local charities: Just Drop In in Macclesfield, and the East Cheshire NHS Trust Maternity Project. Around 100 people attended the event and Sarah said: “This event was a wonderful oppor- tunity to come together, learn from one another, and unwind at the end of the week in a true spirit of community.” Lily Preston, Fund- raising and Events Man- ager, added: “I would like to thank Sara and all our colleagues who organised this wonder- ful event and helped to raise much-needed funds for the mater- nity project.” Iftar: Some of the hospital staff who took part in the event (Photo credit: East Cheshire NHST) Coming together to experience Ramadan