NEW CENTRE FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES INAUGURATED IN BIRKIRKARA
Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela, has officially inaugurated a new Centre for Child, Adolescent and Youth Services (CAYS) in Birkirkara.
The modern facility brings together a wide range of specialised services for children, adolescents and young people under one roof. It integrates the Child Development Assessment Unit (CDAU) and the Child and Young People’s Services (CYPS), which previously operated separately.
The opening of the centre is expected to improve coordination between services, offering families easier, more efficient and comprehensive access to care in a single location.
During the visit, the Prime Minister toured the facility, meeting professionals and staff, as well as children, adolescents and families benefiting from the services provided.
CAYS offers holistic care that addresses both physical and mental health needs. Services include neurodevelopmental paediatrics, community paediatrics, child and adolescent psychiatry, psychology and psychotherapy. Additional specialised services such as audiology, ophthalmology, dietetics, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy are also available.
The centre is supported by a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses in both mental and physical health, social workers, therapists and other specialised professionals. It also features thoughtfully designed spaces aimed at enhancing patient experience, including a quiet room, a breastfeeding room and other family-friendly areas.
This investment aligns with Malta Vision 2050, which focuses on delivering more accessible and modern healthcare services. The vision emphasises high-quality care, early intervention, prevention, the use of modern health technology and stronger community-based services to ensure patients and their families receive the best possible support.
The inauguration concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque marking the official opening of the new centre.
Photo Credits: DOI Clifton Fenech
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