The Scottish Government

When deciding where to site services and when to open, think about:

• Can the young person access the service without feeling stigmatised? For example, a generic drop-in service that could be accessed for a wide range of reasons. Even specialist services tend to find that clients and referrers feel more comfortable if the service has a 'neutral' name, e.g. Borders Young Peoples' Drug & Alcohol Project changed its name to the Reiver Project.

• Is there sufficient private space available to safeguard confidentiality? For example, a separate 'consulting' room or area where conversations can not be overheard.

• Are premises available out of school hours, at evenings and weekends? For example, an arrangement with a community centre to use their premises for meeting young clients.

• Are staff supported to work outside normal office hours? For example, through a budget for irregular hours payments and a clear policy for safety and security.

• Is the site already well known and used by young people? For example, a community internet café, sexual health service or youth club.

• Is the environment of the building welcoming to young people? For example, young people have control over decorating and furnishing the space.

• Are services convenient for public transport? Would mobile units be possible? For example, a specialist service that offers discreet appointments through the school.

• Will outreach services be needed to reach particular populations? For example, a worker recruited specifically to build trust and develop interventions with local minority ethnic communities.

• Where are the other programmes for young people who need additional support? For example, national training programmes such as 'Getting Ready for Work' who deal with young people with a range of social, emotional and other difficulties and the Beattie Inclusiveness Projects.

• Are a variety of settings available to respond to particularly vulnerable groups, such as those involved in prostitution or homeless young people? For example, a regular clinic based within a night shelter.

It may be necessary to develop a multi-modal approach with a range of different access points.