Transition is the process of moving from one stage of care to another. In healthcare, this is when young peoples care moves from children's (paediatric) services to adult services. Transition is part of preparation for adulthood and aims to ensure young people receive the support needed to thrive in adult services.
Transition is a gradual process that starts when young people are around 13 or 14 years old. Preparation in paediatrics will consider knowledge and understanding of conditions, treatment and medications along with the support that is needed for a young person to become more responsible for their own care, and take more control of the decisions that are being made. This will all be done alongside parents and carers.
There are many similarities between children and adult services. Staff roles such as Doctors, Nurses, Physiotherapists and Medical Secretaries will continue to provide care and support. However, appointments may take place in different clinic rooms, wards or hospitals, and there may be changes to how prescriptions are collected. The team in adult services will be experts in specific specialties of care, so there may be multiple teams providing support rather than just one in children's services.
If a young person, parent or carer has questions about transition please speak to the health care team.
Useful information on transition, including guidance and standards can be found on the links at the bottom of the page.
Last reviewed: 19 October 2026