The Durbanville Community Day Centre (CDC) has officially launched its innovative Youth Zone, an initiative aimed at revolutionising how young people between the ages of 10 and 24 access healthcare, reports Cape {town} Etc.
This dedicated space within the facility is designed to create a welcoming and non-judgemental environment, addressing the unique health needs of adolescents and fostering their autonomy in healthcare decisions.
As young people often face barriers when seeking healthcare, including a fear of judgement, particularly regarding sexual and mental health concerns, the opening of the Youth Zone offers significant relief.
‘Young people often fear seeking healthcare because of judgement, especially around sexual or mental health issues. This Youth Zone is our way of making youth feel comfortable in educating themselves about their health,’ stated Sr Liesel Rose, Facility Manager at the Durbanville CDC.
Her vision is clear: to cultivate a space where youth feel respected, empowered, and free to take control of their wellbeing without fear or shame.
This initiative arrives at a crucial moment for the Durbanville community, which has undergone a notable demographic shift. Historically, the centre served a predominantly elderly patient population, but recent trends indicate a growing attendance from younger individuals seeking support.
To celebrate the launch of the Youth Zone, community members and stakeholders came together for an open day on 27 June 2025, where they explored the facility, met the healthcare team, and learned more about the array of services designed specifically for youth.
The Youth Zone is set to operate every Tuesday and Thursday between 12pm and 2pm, providing a consistent and accessible space for young people to seek guidance and support. The services offered encompass sexual and reproductive health education, family planning, chronic condition management such as HIV and TB mental health support, counselling, routine medical check-ups, and care for minor ailments.
The creation of the Youth Zone has garnered the support of several vital partners who each contribute unique offerings.
USAPHO focuses on developing teen-parent health initiatives and psychosocial counselling, while the local SAPS engages youth in awareness programmes surrounding critical issues such as bullying, gender-based violence, and substance abuse.
Family Support for Schizophrenia (FSS) provides mutual support for relatives and carers, creating a compassionate environment, and MATRIX assists young parents in navigating the challenges of parenthood.
With the newly launched Youth Zone, the Durbanville CDC is making essential strides towards ensuring inclusive, youth-focused healthcare.
Also read:
New Bellville South clinic offers youth-friendly healthcare services
Picture: Supplied
Source: WCG
