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Teenagers learn so vital health lessons on hi-tech Buzz Bus
BLACKPOOL has a new weapon in the war on poor health, teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections – a bus.
The vehicle – refurbished and kitted out with a kitchen, seating area, computer station and toilet – has been dubbed "The Buzz Bus".
It is a mobile service for young people, aged 13 to 19, where youth workers, sexual health nurses and other health professionals offer advice.
Teenagers will be able to hop aboard to get information and talk about a range of health issues – including sex and alcohol – as well as pregnancy testing and contraception.
Lesley Hodder, teenage pregnancy coordinator with Blackpool Primary Care Trust, said: "The Buzz Bus is a fantastic opportunity to get important messages and information across to young people in a relaxed, friendly environment.
"There will be fully-qualified nurses and youth workers on board to talk to the young people about sex, relationships and so on – to help give them the skills to negotiate healthy relationships.
"This is as important – if not more – than providing them with contraception."
The bus, designed with the help of young people, features a distinctive graffiti-style logo. Onboard there is room for up to 14 people to sit and talk, a kitchen, computers and a special room for one-to-one consultations.
Research
It is hoped the bus travelling out to different areas will mean more young people will seek help from health professionals.
Recent research showed 20 per cent of residents said they would not use services based in Blackpool town centre, but would use services closer to home.
Becky Holdich, 15, from Montgomery High School, was one of the first teen-agers to take a look. She said: "It's really good. It's modern, comfortable and makes it relaxing for people to talk to adults. It makes it easier to talk to people they don't know.
"With the laptops and everything, it's quite homely, it makes it feel like you are just in your room talking to friends."
Ben Richardson, also 15 and from Montgomery, said: "The bus is great. It's not like you're in a clinical setting, so it's more informal and relaxed. There's no pressure.
"I think it will encourage young people to use the service more than a clinic. And the services there are relevant for us as well."
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Weather for Blackpool
Wednesday 30 May 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 12 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: West
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Temperature: 12 C to 16 C
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