Meet young people where they are. Use clear language, be approachable, and invite questions and discussion.

Actively seek the young person’s perspective and acknowledge their views, including in the presence of parents or carers.

Begin seeing young people on their own when they are ready (often from around 14 years old). Aim to allocate 5-10 minutes of the consultation to the young person initially, increasing this over time.

Use a structured HEEADSSS assessment to explore psychosocial strengths, risks and protective factors, and how these may impact health and care.

Support young people to recognise early signs of deterioration, understand their condition, and know what to do when they are unwell. Include strategies for managing stress, low mood and anxiety.

Discuss how responsibility for healthcare gradually shifts over time, while recognising the ongoing role of families and carers.

Acknowledge that changes in mood, sleep patterns, risk-taking and identity exploration are a normal part of adolescent development.

Reinforce the importance of safety, healthy sleep, balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. 

Explain confidentiality clearly to build trust. Young people may provide informed consent from around 14 years old, depending on capacity and context. 

Discuss puberty and how physical and emotional changes may affect their condition and treatment.

Offer positive reinforcement and constructive feedback. Be realistic and optimistic, while recognising the challenges of living with a chronic condition.