Discrimination against people with type 1 diabetes has been known to occur in a number of settings for example at school, in the workplace, when obtaining a drivers licence or an insurance policy.

In schools with students who have type 1 diabetes, it’s important that all staff, including relief staff, have sufficient knowledge about diabetes to ensure the safety of those students.

Schools are usually very aware of student’s rights and responsibilities and are keen to ensure the student’s wellbeing and safety. It is important for parents to regularly discuss management of their child’s diabetes with the school. At all times the child should be allowed access to their blood glucose testing equipment, privacy to give their insulin injection(s) and allowed to manage and effectively treat episodes of hypoglycaemia. Staff should be aware that measures need to be taken to prepare for physical activity and excursions.

Some diabetes centres offer a service where the diabetes educator visits the school to talk to the teachers about the management of type 1 diabetes at school.

Diabetes Information for Schools ‘The School Pack’ is a comprehensive guide to the management of type 1 diabetes in the school setting. Download a copy of ‘The School Pack’ here or obtain a copy from Diabetes Australia in your State or Territory.

For students, parents and teachers in New South Wales experiencing problems managing type 1 diabetes at school, the Diabetes Australia – NSW Schools Care Line is available for advice from our paediatric diabetes educator. Please call 02 9552 9962. Please note this service is currently only available in NSW. Other states and territories can contact Diabetes Australia on 1300 136 588 for the cost of a local call.

Workplace

Employers have a duty of care to provide a safe work environment for all their employees, just as the employee has a duty of care to be responsible for their diabetes management.

It is recommended that the person with diabetes disclose to their employer that they have diabetes. This is important should the person with diabetes have a hypo and/or need to take regular breaks to test, eat or give an injection. It is a dangerous situation if people are unaware that an emergency might arise.

Once an employer realises that the person is being responsible about their diabetes, they are usually understanding. It is advisable to discuss with the employer about the need for:
• regular meal breaks
• somewhere private to test and inject
• time out to treat a hypo
• other staff to be aware of hypos, how to treat them and what to do in the case of an emergency

Discrimination may relate to the employment itself, for example, the type of job. In some instances, the person with diabetes will be precluded from some jobs eg becoming a commercial pilot.

If you have any problems or you feel you are being discriminated against, contact your diabetes educator or Diabetes Australia in your State or Territory.

Drivers Licence

In most instances, people with diabetes are able to hold a drivers licence although more frequent medical reviews are required.

Restrictions placed on drivers’ licences are summarised in the booklet “Assessing Fitness to Drive – Commercial and Private Vehicle Drivers – Medical Standards for Licensing and Clinical Management Guidelines”, available from Austroads by calling 02 9264 7088 or by clicking here - you need to register to download a copy from the website.

For further information about driving and type 1 diabetes click here

Insurance

Obtaining life and/or travel insurance can sometimes be more difficult and costly for people with diabetes. It is worthwhile contacting Diabetes Australia as they may be able to negotiate travel and life insurance premiums at competitive rates for members. Contact Diabetes Australia in your State or Territory on 1300 136 588.

Discrimination in any form is illegal. If it occurs it is your right and your responsibility to bring the issue to the notice of those who may be able to help you, such as a school counsellor or union representative.

While Diabetes Australia cannot provide any direct legal advice or financial assistance in any legal action, the Advocacy Officer at Diabetes Australia in each State or Territory can guide you on what to do if you are being discriminated against. To contact the Advocacy Officer at Diabetes Australia in your State or Territory call 1300 136 588.

References

Carter J.N., Discrimination against people with diabetes, Diabetes Management Journal Vol.9, November 2004.

Corbell T., The three Rs of living with diabetes, Conquest, December 2004.