Sedqa staff at party

Staff from the sedqa government agency against abuse were present at the Lovesexy Party held recently at Paradise Bay to convey the message that young people may have fun without misusing substances.

This was the third similar activity, following the activities in Bay Street (February) and at the Faithless Concert (June).

The sedqa 24-hour helpline 151 was also promoted through a banner on the stand. Contacts were made by the distribution of sun protection lotion and wet-wipes. The party-goers also had access to free water at the sedqa stand.

Several young persons approached sedqa staff for information or to discuss issues. Others were interested in resuming contact after the concert. Sedqa staff approached others who seemed to be in need, and offered them a resting place.

The party promoters were especially collaborative with sedqa staff during the preparation and the party sedqa said. HSBC Cares for the Children Fund, which subsidised this initiative, was instrumental in the success of this outreach.

Sedqa said it was already planning other outreach activities for this summer, with the aim of being available for young people in their recreational environment.