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Source: ONE News -
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The closure of a free health centre for Christchurch's youth brought hundreds out in protest.
They say too many people rely on the 198 Health Centre for it to be denied funding.
"We need to be the loud voices for those who are vulnerable, marginalised and with have few resources," says Gayle Lauder.
Around 400 people tuned out to the rally.
Many of them were former or current patients and some were brave enough to front up to tell their stories.
"They've helped me through depression and referred me to other places for things like drug addiction and social support services and I wouldn't be the person I am today without these people standing right next to me," says Lisa.
Jenna, also a former patient, says her financial situation would not have allowed her to go and talk to someone.
For 15 years 198's provided free GP and counselling services for 12 to 25 year olds. Each year the centre sees and treats around 7,000 people.
It is one of over a dozen youth one-stop shops nationwide.
But next month it will close due to a lack of funding.
198 says a change in the government's funding system in 2009 helped put them in the red.
The Canterbury District Health Board gives them $400,000 per annum but they need $700,000 to survive.
The DHB says there are other free mental and sexual health services for youth and free GP services for those under 18, so can not justify putting more money into 198 when funds are needed elsewhere.
