Mina is 20 and has diabetes – her story highlights the need for confidential, youth–friendly healthcare for young people and young adults.

My diabetes was managed pretty well when I was living with my dad but now I’m away studying its really hard to stick to my routine in particular eating well, and regularly when I’m studying, working and cooking for myself.

I didn’t feel like I had any support and every time I spoke to a doctor about it I felt like I was the problem. In the end I changed my GP – it was a relief they treated me like I was normal.

The space was non judgmental, confidential and they asked me about all the things that were going on in my life – hobbies, friends, accommodation – it helped me realise that more sleep would help me with stress and I got some links to info about local health services for me and my friends.

These stories are based on the experiences of the young people we work with and have been created by them. Names and identifying information have been changed or removed.