As a consequence of increasing prevalence, cost, and complications of diabetes, there has been a significant shift in the management of patients with diabetes from secondary to primary care in the last decade (Hawthorne et al, 2012). This article explores some of the goals, issues and practicalities in caring for people with diabetes in primary care, based on a community model used by a diabetes specialist team in London, and the role of diabetes specialist teams in supporting general practice nurses (GPNs) and other healthcare professionals in the multidisciplinary team. It also highlights the importance of ongoing diabetes education and training to ensure that all patients receive early diagnosis, appropriate health checks, an individualised treatment plan, and appropriate referral as needed.