Your Journey Begins Here

Let's take this journey together

Moving to adult care might feel like a big step, but you've got this. We'll be with you every step of the way.

Understanding Your Journey

Moving to adult healthcare happens in three easy stages. You don't have to rush - take your time and go at your own pace!

What is this all about?

Right now, you see doctors and nurses who work with children and teenagers. As you get older, you'll move to doctors who work with adults. This is called "transition".

Think of it like moving up in school - you learn new things gradually. The Ready Steady Go programme has three stages to help you:

🌱
Stage 1: Ready

Learn about your health

🚴
Stage 2: Steady

Practice doing things yourself

🎯
Stage 3: Go

You're ready for adult care!

1
Ready
2
Steady
3
Go
Stage 1: Ready (Usually Ages 12-14)
Learn about your health condition and start asking questions

What happens in this stage?

This is the beginning! Right now, your parents or carers probably do most of the talking at doctor appointments. That's okay - but now it's time to start learning about your own health.

Don't worry, you won't be doing everything alone yet. This stage is just about understanding more about yourself and your condition.

Things you'll learn about:

  • Your health condition
    What it is, why you have it, and how it affects your body
  • Your healthcare team
    Who the doctors and nurses are, and what each person does to help you
  • Asking questions
    It's okay to ask questions! In fact, asking questions shows you're interested in your health
Try the "Ask 3 Questions" Technique
A simple way to be involved in your appointments

When your doctor talks about your treatment or tests, try asking these three questions. They'll help you understand what's happening:

1
What are my options?
This means: what different choices do I have?
2
What are the good and bad parts of each option?
Every choice has pros (good things) and cons (things to think about)
3
Who can help me decide?
You don't have to decide alone - ask who can support you

💡 Tip: Write these questions down before your appointment so you remember to ask them!

Ready Stage Downloads
Worksheets to help you learn about your health (you can fill these in with your parent/carer or doctor)
Stage 2: Steady (Usually Ages 15-16)
Start doing more for yourself with support nearby
Stage 3: Go (Usually Age 17+)
Get ready to move to adult healthcare services

What Makes Adult Care Different?

Change is normal. It doesn't mean anything is wrong - it means you're growing up and your care is growing with you!

Children's Services
Appointments with parents
Team knows you since childhood
Smaller, friendly clinics
Regular check-ins
Adult Services
You lead your appointments (parents can still come!)
New team learns from YOU about your story
Bigger hospitals, but more specialist care
You're in control of when you need support

Remember: This transition is a sign that you're growing stronger and more capable. Your new team is excited to meet you and support your independence!

Key Concepts to Know

These ideas will help you feel confident throughout your journey

Shared Decision Making
Your voice matters in your care
Building Your Health Knowledge
Understanding your story
Practical Skills You'll Learn
Real-world independence
Managing Life Alongside Health
Living your best life
Official NHS Ready Steady Go Resources

Download, View & Print Resources

Access official NHS questionnaires and guides to support your transition journey. You can view them online, download them to your device, or print them to fill out by hand.

For Parents, Guardians & Carers
Supporting your young person's journey
How to Use These Resources
1

Click any resource to view it in your browser

Opens in a new tab for easy reading

2

Download to save on your device

Look for the download button in the PDF viewer

3

Print to fill out by hand if you prefer

Great for appointments or reflection time

Official NHS Resources

This app is built upon the NHS Ready Steady Go programme, developed by Dr. Arvind Nagra, Paediatric Nephrologist at Southampton Children's Hospital. We are grateful for her pioneering work in supporting young people through healthcare transitions. Learn more at www.readysteadygo.net

Get Started Today

Three quick wins to begin your journey right now

Learn 3 Facts
About your condition

Takes just 5 minutes

Ask One Question
At your next appointment

Practice speaking up

List Medications
Write down what you take

Know your meds

The Ask 3 Questions Technique

A simple yet powerful way to be involved in your healthcare decisions. These questions help you understand your options and make informed choices.

Your Questions, Your Power
Asking these questions ensures you are an active participant in your care.

When your doctor talks about your treatment or tests, try asking these three questions. They'll help you understand what's happening:

1
What are my options?
This means: what different choices do I have for my treatment or care?
2
What are the good and bad parts of each option?
Every choice has pros (good things) and cons (things to think about). Understanding both helps you decide.
3
Who can help me decide?
You don't have to decide alone. Your doctor, family, or carer can offer support.

💡 Tip: Write these questions down before your appointment so you remember to ask them! You can also find this information in the 'Ready Stage Downloads' section.

Ready to Begin?

Start building your transition plan and take the first step toward independence

Acknowledgement

This app is built upon the NHS Ready Steady Go programme, developed by Dr. Arvind Nagra, Paediatric Nephrologist at Southampton Children's Hospital. We are grateful for her pioneering work in supporting young people through healthcare transitions. Learn more at www.readysteadygo.net

Let me know how I can make this app even better!