Youth Health Services
Access to low cost, youth-friendly health care is vital if young people are to be proactive in seeking health care. We are actively involved in supporting the extension of school-based health services and community-based youth health centres. Research shows that health services that are designed specifically for young people increase young people's access to health care, particularly for sexual health and mental health care.
Youth One Stop Shops
There are around 15 “one stop shops” around the country providing free, youth-friendly health care to young people in their regions. Some - like “198” in Christchurch and “YOSS” in Palmerston North - have been around for many years. Others like “Waves” in New Plymouth, “Evolve” in Wellington, and “Number 10” in Invercargill have been established more recently.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Health commissioned an evaluation of 12 youth one stop shops. It concluded:
“The way in which Youth One Stop Shops provide services is unique and highly valued by other providers in the sector. While the Youth One Stop Shops do not provide any services that are not available elsewhere, the integrated and youth-specific model of care increases access by youth, particularly those who have higher need.
