Context The best method of providing transition of young people with diabetes is a complex and much debated subject.

Problem There is a dearth of empirical evidence on the best approach to the transition process. Involving patients is an integral part of designing and delivering this service

Intervention To obtain input from young people with diabetes regarding the current transition service in the Hospital and also invite suggestions for improvement.

Study design Young people over 16 years and adults up to age of 25 years were included. We distributed survey questionnaires via the paediatrics diabetic clinics, and also posted them to patients who were in an adult service.

Measurement of improvement Responses from the patients.

Effects of changes Results There were 200 patients between the age of 16 yrs and 25 yrs available, with 68 responses. The current system (one joint appointment with the paediatrician and the adult physician, then straight to a young adult clinic) was popular (46.3%). Most (44.1%) would like to stay for 1 year in the clinic but few longer than that. A significant number (71.2%) want the adult doctor to be present in the clinic. Interestingly few (3%) were interested in a psychologist being present. This may reflect a lack of understanding of the difficulties in the transition process by the patients. It may also reflect the lack of knowledge of how a psychologist can support them. The best time to hold the clinic seems to be at routine clinic times. Most would like the appointment to last between 20–30 min. A diabetic nurse run clinic was preferred by 48.4% (51.6% did not want it). The best age to be transferred was between 16–19 yrs.

Lessons learnt Patient input and experience can give useful insight when designing a model for transition for young people with diabetes.

Message for others Patient views are imperative to bring about a change in the service made for them.