Transition to Adult Services

We understand that moving away from your familiar healthcare professionals that you know will be different, but hopefully by getting involved in the transition process early, it will help you feel more confident, prepared and involved in the move.

When you were younger, your parents/carers may have been making decisions and managing your health condition, but during the transition process we aim to help you become more independent in managing your own health condition. During your appointment, you will be given the opportunity to see your healthcare professional on your own, if appropriate. This will help you gain confidence and independence.

Not everyone will be totally independent, and some people might always want or need family members to help manage their health. This is why we want to provide information to families and carers on what they will also need to know if they advocate for a young person.

During transition, your healthcare team will start planning the support you and your family will need to manage your health condition. As you grow older, that support may be from the health, education or social care services. All the professionals involved in your care should be talking with each other and yourself, to ensure your care needs are met.

We may use a transition programme such as Ready, Steady, Go which will help you gain the knowledge and skills you need to manage your condition. You may also complete a condition specific checklist with a member of your healthcare team to ensure you understand the specific skills needed for your condition and medication.

For young people with more complex needs, different transition documentation may be used.

For some long-term conditions, you will have the opportunity to meet the adult services doctor and/or nurse before you transfer.

Click here for a video and more information about the transition journey

Video courtesy of Bassetlaw CCG

There are a number of things you can ask your healthcare team about your transition.

·       What is the plan for my transition?

·       When am I moving to adult services?

·       What is different about the adult service?

·       Can I meet the adult staff before I leave children’s services?

·       What do I need to know before I move to the adult service?

·       When can I start getting more involved in my health care?

·       How will my condition affect my future, such as my education and employment prospects?

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