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Cornwall promotes everyday foot care as diabetes-related amputations fall
Cornwall promotes everyday foot care as diabetes-related amputations fall
An educational video is encouraging people with diabetes in Cornwall to look after their feet and seek help early, as new figures show fewer major and minor amputations than a decade ago.
What’s happened
NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly has launched an educational video highlighting the importance of daily foot care for people living with diabetes.
Produced in partnership with Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust's podiatry services and members of the Long-Term Conditions Expert Reference Group, the film encourages people to look after their feet and seek help early if they notice changes or have concerns.
Its launch comes as figures show that, despite the number of people living with diabetes in Cornwall increasing substantially over the past decade, the number of major and minor diabetes-related amputations recorded in 2025/26 was lower than in 2015/16.
Diabetes can affect circulation and reduce sensation in the feet, making injuries harder to notice and potentially slowing healing. Without prompt treatment, problems such as cuts, blisters or infections can develop into more serious complications.
Happy feet
The video, Happy Feet: Small Steps Make a Big Difference, focuses on simple habits people with diabetes can incorporate into their daily routine.
The video was co-produced with people living with long-term conditions.
These include:
washing and thoroughly drying the feet every day, particularly between the toes
moisturising dry skin to help prevent cracks, while avoiding the areas between the toes
wearing well-fitting shoes and socks that protect and accommodate the shape of the feet
People are also encouraged to check their feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, hard skin, cracks or changes in colour or shape.
The video includes advice for carers and family members supporting people living with diabetes, including how to recognise warning signs and when to seek professional help.
Why this matters to members
Diabetes is a leading cause of lower-limb amputation, making prevention, early recognition and timely access to appropriate care particularly important.
Figures published alongside the campaign show that the number of people living with diabetes in Cornwall increased from 26,154 in 2015/16 to 37,589 in 2025/26.
Over the same period, the number of major diabetes-related amputations recorded fell from 28 to 22, while minor amputations fell from 106 to 82.
The figures do not establish what caused that reduction, but the new campaign reflects the importance placed locally on self-care and early intervention.
For podiatrists, patient education is an important part of that approach: helping people understand how to look after their feet, recognise changes and know when to seek professional help.
Links and references
NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly: NHS Cornwall’s ‘Happy Feet’ video encourages people with diabetes to take simple steps to protect their foot health as diabetic amputation rates drop
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