For the past three years, Kirsty has been making a real difference in the lives of children and young people living with diabetes at Alder Hey. As a dedicated Diabetes Youth Worker, and someone who lives with Type 1 diabetes herself, Kirsty shares what her role involves, why she loves it, and her message to young people navigating life with the condition…
Hi Kirsty, can you tell us what exactly is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition where the body stops producing insulin. Managing it requires daily injections of a drug called insulin or with the help of an insulin pump, careful monitoring of blood sugar levels, and a lot of resilience, especially for children and teenagers who are still learning to live independently.
What does a Diabetes Youth Worker do?
As a Diabetes Youth Worker, I support children and young people with diabetes to manage their condition and live life to the fullest. This can mean anything from linking in with their key nurse and consultant to understand how to use insulin and how their diet and lifestyle affect their blood sugars to just being there to listen when things feel overwhelming. I provide emotional support and help build their confidence. I work closely with schools and social care teams when needed. When they’re ready to move to adult services, I’ll often attend the first few appointments with them to make sure the transition is smooth. My role is about empowering them, being a consistent, non-judgemental support throughout their journey.
How did you become a Diabetes Youth Worker?
My background is in youth work, and I’ve always loved supporting young people in any way I can. Being a teenager is hard enough, but when you add a long-term condition like diabetes into the mix, it can feel overwhelming. I get it because I’ve been there. I was diagnosed with Type 1 when I was just eight years old and was under the Alder Hey diabetes team until I transitioned to adult care at 15. That personal experience means I understand their challenges on a deeper level. I’ve been in their shoes and now I can offer support and advice without judgement.
What do you love most about your job?
It’s the little wins that mean the most. Like when a young person who’s been struggling starts engaging with the team again or begins taking more interest in managing their condition. Knowing I played a part in that turning point is so rewarding. Recently, I organised a Diabetes Family Fun Day where families could learn more about the condition, ask questions, and connect with others who understand what they’re going through. Seeing families come together and feel less alone was incredible.
What support is available for children, young people, and families?
There’s a lot out there. Diabetes UK is a fantastic resource full of information and support. We also offer a 24-hour helpline for any questions or concerns, day or night. And of course, the team at Alder Hey is always here, passionate, dedicated, and ready to help.
What message would you give to young people living with diabetes?
No one is saying it’s easy, because it isn’t. But you don’t have to do it alone. No one expects perfection. Take all the help and support you can get, you deserve it. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way, helping you live a full, normal life. Living with diabetes doesn’t mean you can’t do the things you love. With the right support, you absolutely can.
Find out more about the Diabetes team here at Alder Hey by clicking the button below.
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