Are you aged 13+ and have arthritis, chronic pain, a previous cancer diagnosis, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, or any ongoing health issues?
Will you need to transfer to the adult healthcare system? Did you know that was a thing?
You're in Charge is an educational program for youth with a health condition and their caregivers. It prepares them for the transition to the adult healthcare system by building health management skills in advance.
You're in Charge includes free, peer-led workshops that focus on gaining confidence and self-management skills. It provides instruction to youth, as well as guidance to caregivers on how they can help youth be more independent in taking care of their health.
Most youth with health care needs that are treated in a pediatric setting will need to transfer to adult healthcare. The education on transitioning should start early.
You’re in Charge provides information on the transitioning process and how to prepare. Youth will learn from older youth that have gone through the transition process and who now receive care in the adult system. Caregivers will also have the chance to meet with other parents and families who are on a similar journey.
You're in Charge workshops are two 2-hour evening sessions offered virtually through Zoom for Healthcare. The first session of the workshop teaches about self-management and transition. In the second session, youth and parents will break into groups. Through activities, discussions, resources and tools, we will explore managing medications, health history, and a current summary of health. We will talk about goal setting, and everyone will create an action plan with their goals.
Who can participate?
Workshops are available to youth (aged 13+) with a health condition and their caregivers. It is open to residents of Nova Scotia, as well as New Brunswick and PEI as IWK Health provides care to youth from these provinces.
Our program is family-focused! We require at least one parent/caregiver to attend with their youth to help build independence, provide information on health history and to also learn about the transition process.
How to get involved
Here is how you can get involved in You're in Charge!
Upcoming You're in Charge Events:
You're in Charge Workshops
- Register for our next workshops on October 15th & October 29th, 2024.
- These online sessions will be from 6:00-7:30 PM.
Let's Talk: Teens building their health care skills webinar
- During these webinars, families hear from youth facilitators who have transitioned to the adult health care system. We talk about why it’s helpful to start talking about transition to adult care early, what self-management means and steps you can take to build your health care skills. For parents/caregivers, we talk about the experience of supporting your youth as they take on more responsibility for managing their health condition. Caregivers are welcome to attend this webinar without their youth.
- Check back soon for our next Let's Talk event dates!
Volunteer with You're in Charge:
See below for more information on volunteer opportunities with You're in Charge!