A COUNSELLING service tailored to young people's needs opened last week.

Face 2 Face is based at Chestnuts House, Hoe Street, Walthamstow, where the launch was attended by Waltham Forest Mayor Midge Broadley and Redbridge Mayor Alan Weinburg.

The service is aimed at people aged 11 to 21 and they can be referred by their doctors, youth workers, teachers or nurses.

Trained counsellors and social workers will provide information and advice on a number of issues including housing and contraception. All counsellors work in accordance with local area Child Protection Committee procedures.

The Face 2 Face team has links with several services, including the Citizens Advice Bureau, East End Focus which provides housing advice, the Odyssey Project which deals with drug and alcohol issues, and Hear and Now who runs counselling services in Redbridge.

A contraceptive service is available on Wednesday afternoons, with a doctor and nurse providing advice.

Face 2 Face service manager Janet Blair said: "The Face 2 Face service is unique in offering young people access to a range of services and responding to needs as identified local young people."

For information on the Face 2 Face service, or to make a referral call 8509 1219.