A pioneering new study aimed at transforming the lives of UK fishermen with insulin-treated diabetes is being launched with vital support from the Fishmongers’ Company. The initiative, led by Professor David Russell-Jones and his team at the University of Surrey, builds on internationally acclaimed research that has enabled diabetic pilots to fly commercially in the UK after years of restrictions.
Thanks to generous donations from members of the Fishmongers’ Company, a £14,000 funding shortfall has been filled, enabling the project to move forward in partnership with The Seafarers’ Charity and the NHS. The study will use cutting-edge Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology—donated by Dexcom and valued at £100,000—to monitor the blood glucose levels of 50 fishermen with insulin-controlled diabetes.
Currently, UK regulations restrict these individuals from working offshore or performing certain duties at sea due to safety concerns. This study aims to develop the evidence base, which in turn could feed into the revision of these rules, just as similar research did for the aviation industry.
Key outcomes of the project include:
The Fishmongers’ Company’s contribution, drawn from funds raised by Company members, complements a grant from The Seafarers’ Charity.
This initiative forms part of the Company’s continued commitment to the welfare of the UK’s fishing communities, fostering a sustainable and safe industry for generations to come.
Image credit: Seafish Industry Authority
© The Fishmongers’ Company 2025
