Preventing foot problems in people with diabetes has been a priority in the UK over the past ten years, but research highlighting a lack of specialist diabetes footcare teams shows that one quarter of diabetics do not get a foot check. This article uses a case study to examine the positive impact of having access to a specialist service for one patient with an acute exacerbation of a diabetic foot ulcer. It addresses the importance of carrying out a holistic assessment, rationalises the care plan that was established to manage the patient’s condition, and provides the strategy employed to promote an environment for self-care.