According to the data, obesity is thought to be the main cause behind the increase.
Diabetes UK’s chief executive Chris Askew said the figures were a ‘worrying wake up call’ and a ‘sad indictment of the health of our nation’.
It is estimated that nearly a third (30 per cent) of children aged two to 15 are currently obese or overweight – a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
The new report, published by NHS Digital, also shows that children diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are not receiving the care they need to manage their condition, with only 30 per cent receiving the right support.
According to Diabetes UK, the condition is often more serious in children and if left untreated can cause long-term consequences such as heart disease and stroke later in life.
The charity is calling on the NHS, NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) and the Government to find ‘innovative ways’ of reducing overweight and obesity in children.
It wants all children living with the condition to receive the same level of specialist care and for the Government to reduce fat and sugar levels in foods and make healthier food more accessible.
Type 2 diabetes causes too much sugar in a person’s blood. Treatment for the condition includes medicines and changes to diet and activity levels. The condition is more common in adults.
'More needs to be done to stop cases in children increasing further'
Chief executive of Diabetes UK Chris Askew said, ‘It is shocking for even one child to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, but to see nearly 1,600 children living with the condition is a sad indictment of the health of our nation.
‘The environment we live in is a major contributing factor to rising levels of childhood obesity, and in turn type 2 diabetes. Far more needs to be done to help us all make healthier choices and to stop cases increasing further.’
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said, 'We are absolutely committed to levelling up health disparities across the country with our world leading obesity strategy and the new Office for Health Promotion launching later this year will spearhead national efforts to tackle obesity, improve mental health and promote physical activity.
'We are investing £100 million to support children, adults and families achieve and maintain a healthier weight. This funding will help thousands of children and families to access support services, including access to digital apps, weight management groups, individual coaches and specialist clinical advice.'
