By Everson Luhanga
- The clinic provides healthcare, mental support, drug treatment and HIV prevention services designed to meet growing needs of young people in Johannesburg
- Founders bring years of experience in health and infrastructure, aiming to expand youth friendly services and create jobs through skills development programmes
Young people in Braamfontein are getting easier access to healthcare through a clinic built around their daily struggles. The centre focuses on students and young workers who often cannot afford private care.
The Dunwell Youth Priority Clinic deals with mental health, drug misuse and HIV prevention. It responds to rising suicide attempts, substance abuse and unsafe medical practises among young people.
The clinic offers walk in services during the day and a 24 hour virtual service. A nurse is available after hours for emergencies, including HIV prevention pills and emergency contraception.
It provides family planning, HIV treatment and support for chronic illness. Young people can access long term contraception, including implants and intrauterine devices, as well as pills and injections.
The centre also runs a drug detox programme with prevention, treatment and support. It includes counselling, mental health screening and access to a psychologist and social worker.
Programme director Nonjabulo Mbuthu is a professional nurse with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked as a mentor and project manager in government and non profit organisations. She leads programmes that focus on prevention and treatment for young people.
Executive director Thando Cele has worked in health infrastructure in the Gauteng government. He leads the clinic’s growth and aims to build more centres across South Africa.
The clinic also trains young people through a skills programme linked to employment initiatives. This gives them work experience while supporting the community.
The team works with universities and organisations to reach more young people. They say funding cuts and high costs still make it hard for many to access care.
Pictured above: Staff at the Dunwell Youth Priority Clinic in Braamfontein support young people with health, counselling and prevention services.
Image source: Supplied
