New online health service launched for teenagers

A new online service aiming to give adolescents simple advice on how to stay healthy has been launched.

The Department of Health (DoH) is rolling out the NHS Teen LifeCheck website, which is aimed at 12 to 15-year-olds.

Information about sexual health, illegal drugs, alcohol, smoking, exercise and nutrition are available, as well as advice about looking after emotional wellbeing.

Medical professionals and research experts have been consulted in the development of the website.

Public health minister Gillian Merron noted teenage years can be a difficult time for adolescents.

“NHS Teen LifeCheck is a quick and easy way of checking your health which gives simple advice on how to be healthier,” she stated.

“We’ve worked with young people to develop an effective and accessible service which is completely confidential.”

Meanwhile, the DoH has granted 2.5 million pounds to 25 local authorities to tackle the problem of smoking. Adolescents with tobacco habits are among the groups that will be targeted.