Pest control brought into NHS Parallel Youth Service, Bolton

Bolton town centre’s NHS Parallel Young People’s Health Service, Churchgate, provides health services for young people aged 11 to 19, before unexpectedly closing.

When The Bolton News asked whether rats were the reason for the temporary closure, the NHS PS (property services) said: “We are aware of a pest control issue.”

An NHS PS spokesperson added: “We have been in regular contact with the trust who occupies the facility.

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(Image: NQ) “The building has been temporarily closed to ensure the safety and well-being of colleagues and visitors.

“Services have been relocated to alternative sites to minimize disruption.

 “We are working closely with our contractor and have employed our pest control specialists to address the issue.

“Our team is committed to resolving this matter promptly and effectively.

 “We appreciate the community's patience as we work through this situation.”

Rae Wheatcroft, chief operating officer at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are currently experiencing estate issues at The Parallel Centre, where our adolescent health services were located.

“As a precaution, and in order to protect the wellbeing of our patients and staff, we have temporarily relocated our services to nearby health centres.

 “The service remains open and there are no changes to our contact details or opening hours. Young people looking to access The Parallel service can call 01204 462 444 to speak to a nurse and access one of our drop-in clinics at Bolton One.

 “We would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this time.”

The Parallel provides free condoms, sexual health information and advice, emergency contraception, sexual health screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and emotional health and wellbeing including counselling and support.