Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation

The Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation (DRWF), established in 1998 in the UK as part of a global network founded in 1993, is an internationally recognised charity dedicated to funding high-quality clinical and scientific research toward a cure for diabetes while supporting those affected by Type 1 and Type 2 conditions and their complications. Its mission emphasises alleviating suffering through research, education, awareness, and wellness programmes, guided by values of community engagement, scientific integrity, and practical health promotion. Distinctively, DRWF balances pursuit of breakthroughs—like islet cell research and transplantation—with immediate improvements in self-management and care.

It prioritises diabetes-related research on pathophysiology, causes, prevention, management, cure, and complications such as macrovascular disease, neuropathy, and early detection. Funding also supports education and community initiatives for people with diabetes (children and adults), families, and health professionals. Key programmes include project grants, clinical fellowships (e.g., Sutherland-Earl), and pump-priming awards, benefiting UK academic researchers, institutions, and NHS teams.

Eligible applicants are UK-based academic institutions and research-active clinicians; no income thresholds apply, and unsolicited applications are welcomed. Grants typically range from £10,000–£20,000 for projects/pump-priming to £60,000 annually for fellowships (up to 3 years). Applications are submitted via email with full forms (abstract, narrative, budget, ethics), reviewed biannually—spring (April–May) for fellowships, autumn (September–October) for projects—with decisions post-trustee panels.

DRWF excludes core costs, capital grants, unrestricted funding, or non-diabetes topics, focusing solely on mission-aligned, ethically robust projects. It stands out for its rigorous merit-based selection, substantial islet science investments, and dual commitment to curative research and UK-wide patient empowerment.