Teenage Kicks health fair at local library

The Teenage Kicks Health Fair offers an opportunity to raise awareness of and provide information, support and signposting for teenagers on a range of issues including self-esteem, health and wellbeing, exam pressure, sexual health, mental health, alcohol and drugs misuse, internet safety, and health and beauty.

Addressing pupils from Wallace High School, Forthill Integrated College, St Patrick’s Academy and Friends’ School, the Minister said: “Empowering young people to take control of their own lives is a major step in the right direction towards them making better informed decisions about their future health and well-being.

“I would like to commend Libraries NI for making this fair such a success.

“All of us in positions of influence - whether as a member of the Northern Ireland Executive, a member of a local council, a teacher, librarian or a parent – need to ensure that all our young people are given the chance to fulfil their potential.

“With the right support from early years throughout adolescence many more will grow up to contribute positively to their local communities and society as a whole.”

Lisburn City Library staff were on hand to demonstrate the range of library services available for teenagers, including the free eBook service.

Irene Knox, Chief Executive of Libraries NI, said: “This library event was organised in conjunction with the Council and the South Eastern Health Trust and focused on showing students of post-primary age how to make decisions regarding health, social life and other topics of interest.”

An impressive number of organisations offered information and advice to students, attending the Health Fair, including ASCERT, Cancer Focus, Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Lisburn City Council, PIPS Suicide Prevention, PSNI, RNIB, South Eastern Regional College Health and Beauty, SERC Totally You, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, YMCA and others.