I already said that one of the important needs at my level for smooth management of this problem is education. My GP does a good job in taking good care about me, but I feel even there my need for being educated about the disease is lacking. Rather than simple advice of exercise, diet, medicines, and side effects of these medications, I often felt that most of these treatments are imposed on me. I could never really feel that I am a part of it. I also feel that I could do better in terms of food if my GP would involve me in the diet plan based on my choices. (Participant 3, male, age 48)

I have been involved in a management plan but I cannot speak English very well...(Participant 1, male, age 50)

I have never been involved in a care programme. In most cases, when I visit the doctors, the nurses would check blood sugars, ignore my records, and inform me how I am progressing towards death. Yes, they say a healthy diet is necessary, but they never have time to ask me what are my preferences or what I can afford. They tell about exercises, but never did show me what I can do with my reduced eyesight. They just don't bother about you. They say reduce risks, and I am clueless about how to do it. (Participant 6, male, age 46)

I have Never been involved in a management plan, they ask us to record sugars at home, but they don’t even see them ever. Involvement in care plan needs talking to the patient; do they have time? (Participant 10, female, age 52)

As I have Type 2 diabetes, my doctor initially gave me a few sessions about keeping my sugar levels under control, diet and activity level. I was given a diet chart and then I started doing my own research on food and diabetes and now have a strict routine and schedule for my day. (Participant 11, male, age 42)

My doctor sat me through and explained what I should expect and what I need to do. He asked about my life and schedule and then made suggestions to modify (Participant 20, female, age 44)

I used to follow my family’s instructions and my wife managed my condition very well throughout the years. Now, I do get involved with my dietician and doctor and try to give my own inputs for helping them advice me better, however is at times hard to understand and communicate due to the language. (Participant 7, male, age 53).