It’s a good idea to start taking an interest in the shopping and the goings on in the kitchen. If you haven’t been doing much grocery shopping yourself, go along on the next trip and find out where all those gluten-free goodies have been coming from. You may find these sections of the website useful:

• Choosing Food
• Cooking

You might start eating out or travelling a bit on your own. Make sure you get comfortable explaining your needs by yourself.

As you spread your wings you may be more tempted to cheat on your diet. Have a look at our tips for coping with gluten mistakes.

If you’re turning 18 or moving out, explore your options for Financial Support.

We’ve opened up a page on Facebook which is a good spot to find younger coeliacs. You could also call the office and see if you can find a friend through our Coeliac Buddies.

Or maybe start a new topic on the forum?

We’re interested in providing help to anyone who wants to start a Society branch in their College or University. Please call the office to find out more.

Another good place to turn is Coeliac Youth of Europe who organise conferences, summer camps and have travel networks for young people with coeliac disease.

Getting involved with the Coeliac Society of Ireland or Coeliac Youth of Europe could be a great way to get some valuable work experience that you can put on your CV.