A fresh VIBE for the Hutt Valley Youth Health Service

A free health service offering help and advice to thousands of young Hutt Valley people is getting a new home and a fresh look.

The Hutt Valley Youth Health Service, a free, confidential health and support service for young people aged 10 to 24, was re-launched today under a new name and in new premises by Youth Affairs Minister Steve Maharey and Health Minister Annette King.

Steve Maharey said the rebranded service, would be called “VIBE”, to better reflect today’s youth culture and to widen its appeal to more young people.

“VIBE is an excellent youth health service," Steve Maharey said. "From humble beginnings, it has continued to grow and evolve in response to the needs and views of the community’s young people.

"Young people are not only users of the service, but are the backbone of the organisation."

Annette King said key to the service’s success was its innovative approach to finding health solutions for young people.

“Young people are often told what they shouldn't be doing. Perhaps what they haven't heard enough is what they could be doing, particularly if we give them the tools and knowledge to make the right decisions for themselves," she says.

"I'm sure that by rebranding itself, this service will raise its profile and further extend the good work it is doing for the young people of the Hutt valley."

In addition to services provided at its new location, VIBE also provides clinical services at Orongomai Marae, school-based health clinics in four local secondary schools, and a monthly clinic for young people with diabetes.

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