In the vibrant community of Harrow, a deep commitment to health, wellbeing, and inclusion thrives. At the forefront of this movement is Bipin Dattani, a dedicated volunteer who leads NHS Diabetes Community Club (DCC) classes and Diabetes Digital Inclusion (DDI) sessions throughout North West London, including right here in Harrow. This blog explores Bipin’s inspiring work and its profound impact on residents, particularly in fostering support for diabetes management and creating inclusive spaces for all.
Bipin has won TWO Harrow Heroes Awards for his volunteer work
Recently, Bipin won the Harrow Heroes Health & Wellbeing Award and Volunteer of the Year Award. Bipin says, “It’s still sinking in! I feel incredibly humbled by the recognition and am grateful for all the kind words of support I’ve received. More than anything, these awards reflect the collective efforts of the community and the importance of grassroots health initiatives. Volunteering has the power to change lives—not only for those who participate but also for those who give their time and energy.”
“I love changing lives for the better – it’s incredibly rewarding to watch people improve their health, gain confidence with technology, and form meaningful connections with others.
Staying healthy is more than just eating right or exercising—it’s about staying connected, learning new skills, and building a community through the peer-group support that we offer.
Harrow is full of opportunities to do just that – I look forward to welcoming you to one of our sessions soon!”
Bipin started this work during the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020, while serving as Chairman of Enderley Road Patients’ Participation (ERPA). ERPA received a small grant from the NHS and the Good Things Foundation to help kick-start the programme. At that time, with strict COVID-19 restrictions in place as groups were not allowed to meet indoors, they had to think outside the box—they turned the car park at Wealdstone Methodist Church into an outdoor classroom and brought people together safely in fresh air.
Join one of Bipin’s sessions today!
Bipin leads NHS Diabetes Community Club (DCC) classes and Diabetes Digital Inclusion (DDI) sessions and weekly Healthy Lifestyle Peer-support Group Meetings at three Harrow locations, with an online option via ZOOM on Saturday mornings. A fourth one is conducted at The Hammersmith Surgery. The sessions are not only educational but also social. Many participants form lasting friendships and build a support system that benefits their overall wellbeing. These classes offer a welcoming environment where everyone can learn, connect, and thrive.
His programmes support diabetes management while also creating inclusive spaces for older residents, particularly those needing help with digital skills. Participants gain more than just knowledge—they leave with confidence, new skills, and a sense of achievement. Many proudly display their Graduation Certificates as symbols of personal growth. One grandmother even gave one of her certificates to her granddaughter, who shares it proudly with friends!
The Road Ahead: Expanding Our Support Across Harrow
Looking ahead, Bipin’s dream is to expand these programmes across the entire borough of Harrow. By partnering with local organisations like Everyone Active, GP surgeries, and Harrow Council they are planning to expand their programmes’ reach and are always on the lookout for volunteers to support their work.
Get Involved Today
If you’re interested in getting involved, whether it’s through volunteering or participating in a class, Bipin encourages you to reach out. The benefits are immense—not just for the community but for your personal wellbeing, too.
If you’d like to know more or join a session, then email; erpanews@gmail.com or phone, 07825 312402. You can also visit the NHS Diabetes Community Club.