Experiences of the transition to adult services, for young people with Type 1 Diabetes

Healthwatch Blackburn with Darwen and Lancashire were asked by the East Lancashire Hospital Trust (ELHT) to conduct a survey focusing on the experiences of young people diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). In total, Healthwatch spoke to 34 young people. They wanted to investigate their experiences of the transition to adult services, as it falls during a time when they may be experiencing other life changes.

77% of the respondents to this survey found the transition to adult services to be a positive experience. 62% felt positive about attending appointments, 85% said nothing put them off attending and everyone understood the purpose of the appointments, although 48% felt anxious prior to attending their appointments. There were four individual respondents who stood out as being both anxious about their appointments and being aware that they were not managing their T1D. Most respondents are aware when their T1D is under control and are comfortable and confident enough to be honest in the Ready, Steady, Go questionnaire. However, one in three download their meter readings and one in three are worried about their future living with T1D. Nurses and Doctors/Consultants are the most valued in providing support and respondents also value nurse and Doctor/Consultant led appointments. 94% felt that appointments focus on their personal needs.

Education and information that respondents would like to see tended to focus on advice and guidance for their future. A ‘perfect service’ for the young people who answered this questionnaire, would consist of quick, timely and local appointments with all the relevant staff present, where everyone was understanding, friendly and caring.