Putting Feet First ( www.wounds-uk.com.woundcare/downloads/diabetes_uk_2.pdf ) has recently been published by Diabetes UK and a number of partnering organisations to provide guidance for the commissioning of specialist services for the management and prevention of diabetic foot disease in hospitals. One of the key aims of the document is to provide a template for best practice in the management of acute onset or deteriorating disease of the diabetic foot and ultimately reduce the need for amputation. The document highlights the need for partnership working across the NHS to ensure continuity of care for people with diabetic foot disease. This month’s debate will focus on the issues affecting this patient group and examine some of the issues which led to the guideline being produced.