RESIDENTS suffering from Type 2 diabetes could receive wearable technology to help monitor their exercise levels, the NHS has said.

Up to 8,000 could benefit from the digital scheme designed to combat Type 2 diabetes and make people healthier.

People will have access to a digital watch which monitors levels of exercise, apps which allow users to access health coaches and educational content, online peer support groups and to be able to set and monitor health goals electronically.

Jonathan Valabhji, NHS national clinical director for diabetes and obesity, said: "The Diabetes Prevention Programme has been a tremendous success for thousands of people already, and this new digital pilot further builds on that success.

“I’m delighted to see such a positive response among younger working age people, which shows how a digital approach can expand the reach of patients’ services as part of the NHS Long Term Plan.”

Diabetes is one of the greatest health problems facing the UK, with almost 4 million people in England having Type 2.

The Long Term Plan hopes to prevent ill health, as well as expand and extend treatment.

Nikki Joule, policy manager at Diabetes UK, said: "This pilot has shown that a digital version of the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme has the potential to encourage a wider range of people to participate.

“This could be vital in reaching more of the millions of people at risk of Type 2 diabetes, and in helping to reduce the increasing prevalence of the condition."