The Ministry of Health on Thursday launched its Youth Friendly Services (YFS) programme in Region Three at the Windsor Forest Health Centre.
A press release from the Region Three Regional Administra-tion Office said Chairman Julius Faerber, Regional Health Officer Dr Holly Alexander and Director of the Adolescent and Youth Adult Health and Wellness Unit Dr Marcia Paltoo attended the opening.
In his address Faerber said the YFS services would help to reduce incidences of HIV/AIDS, drug abuse and violence. Noting that the programme is open to youths between the ages of 10 and 14, Faerber said an awareness programme is necessary to encourage them to attend. He congratulated the Unit for extending its services to the region and said he hopes that it can be started in other parts of the region.
YFS provides clinical and non-clinical services such as reproductive health, mental health, pre and post-natal care, voluntary counselling and testing, peer education and recreation activities. All services are free and can be accessed at YFS Health Centres between 3 pm to 6 pm on Fridays and from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturdays.
