The health initiative is seen as a one-stop facility for the homeless

The new �800,000 one-stop health centre specifically geared for the needs of the homeless is to open next month.

The Marywell Centre will operate on a drop-in basis and provide clinics and treatment for a variety of minor injuries and illnesses.

A GP, dentist and substance misuse nurse will be available - along with guidance on welfare issues.

Homeless people face great inequalities in accessing healthcare Julie McNutt Service manager

It has been hailed as the first custom-built health facility for the homeless in Aberdeen, bringing together a wide range of health and dental professionals from services currently spread across the city.

Run by Aberdeen City Community Health Partnership (CHP), the centre will operate from 0900 to 1700 GMT on weekdays.

'Health suffers'

Service manager Julie McNutt said it was essentially a one-stop shop for a range of services.

She said: "We are delighted with the opening of this new facility.

"Homeless people face great inequalities in accessing healthcare, and their health often suffers because of lifestyle or poor living accommodation.

"This healthcare centre will support our objectives in providing services which are both accessible and appropriate."

It is part of a �2.5m development partly funded by Communities Scotland which is also offering training facilities.

Aberdeen Foyer, a charity which helps homeless and disadvantaged young people to gain social and economic independence, will have office and teaching facilities.