Agreements have been signed between the Housing Authority, the National Mental Health Services and the Richmond Foundation for the rental and subletting of a three-bedroom maisonette in Birkirkara, which will be used to provide a specialised residential service for adolescents.This residence, the first of its kind operated by the Richmond Foundation for young people aged between 13 and 17, will offer a therapeutic and supportive environment for those who have been discharged from specialised psychiatric care.The aim is to help these young people transition back into the community in a safe environment tailored to their emotional, developmental and clinical needs.The maisonette will accommodate up to four adolescents, with support from Richmond Foundation staff available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.The National Mental Health Services were the driving force behind this programme, having identified a gap in services for adolescents requiring specialised and structured support that cannot be provided through traditional residential services.Following the identification of this need, the National Mental Health Services developed a policy framework, which was approved in October 2025, and led efforts to turn the initiative into a concrete service in collaboration with the authorities responsible for accommodation and the Richmond Foundation.Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, Dr Ian Borg, described the initiative as an important step towards strengthening community-based mental healthcare.“We want every young person to find the support they need at every stage of their care. The National Mental Health Services identified a need and worked with our partners to address it through a service specifically designed for adolescents. Through this initiative, we will help them continue their education, participate in community life and look towards the future with greater confidence,” Minister Borg said.Minister for Accommodation and Lands Owen Bonnici said the agreement reflects the government’s commitment to continuing to create more opportunities for people who require support, particularly young people facing mental health challenges.Minister Bonnici emphasised that accommodation is not simply about having a roof over one’s head, but also represents an important step towards greater stability, dignity and integration into the community.“Through our collaboration with the Richmond Foundation, we are giving these young people the opportunity to continue their journey in a safe environment, with support tailored to their needs,” Minister Bonnici said.The National Mental Health Services will finance both the finishing works required at the maisonette and the operation of the service.They will also be responsible for clinical assessments, admission criteria, ongoing supervision by a multidisciplinary team and monitoring the quality and outcomes of care.This will ensure that support is tailored to each adolescent’s individual needs, while hospital care will remain available whenever clinically necessary.The programme builds on an existing collaboration with the Richmond Foundation for individuals aged 18 and over.In addition to providing daily care and support, the service will help young people develop the skills needed for greater independence and prepare them for adult life.Under the agreement, the Housing Authority will subsidise 80% of the property’s rental cost, while the National Mental Health Services will cover the rent and the services provided by the Richmond Foundation.Share this with someone who would be interested to know•