A new analysis of figures published today show that they have had the biggest declines in teenage pregnancy rates in the (region) since the start of the Teenage Pregnancy Strategy and are among the top local authorities nationally.
The ‘Teenage Pregnancy Next Steps’ guidance published last month includes evidence which suggests that areas where the issue of teenage pregnancy and its underlying factors are given a top priority are much more likely to see a decline in rates of under-18 conceptions. It also calls on authorities that aren’t doing well to look carefully at their local strategies and to learn from their geographical neighbours, as well as authorities elsewhere that share similar characteristics.
Children, Young People and Families Minister Beverley Hughes said:
“I welcome this new look at figures which show that the national rate of teenage pregnancy has continued to fall and I especially want to congratulate the work going on in Gateshead, South Tyneside and Darlington where there has been particular progress thanks to the high quality support and services being offered to young people. Other authorities in the North East that are not yet achieving this degree of success need to look at those that are – both in the North East and beyond, and raise their game.
“We know that the outcomes of teenage pregnancy for both parent and child are likely to be negative. The Government’s Teenage Pregnancy Strategy aims to help young people by giving them honest and unbiased information and support, as well as raising their aspirations and opening up opportunities. But success relies on Local Authorities and Primary Care Trusts making this a priority and all agencies working together.
“Our latest guidance sets out for senior decision makers what we expect every area to do to help all areas perform as well as the best. I hope today’s figures bring into sharper focus the need to do this.”
