If you are a parent/carer or young person and need advice or support relating to teenage pregnancy, this page has useful information for you. 

Girls who find out they are (or think that they might be) pregnant are often confused, scared and don’t know where to turn for help. Take a look at the websites below for useful advice and support. They range from how to tell if you are pregnant, to how to tell your parents and how to access professional options counselling. 

 

Connexions – the early signs of pregnancy, information on sexual health and family planning clinics. 

Marie Stopes – online counselling and advice about pregnancy and sexual health.

Tommys – young women's guide to a healthy pregnancy.

Youth 2 Youth – a helpline for 11-19 year olds that is run for young people by young people. You can contact them by telephone, email or online chat.

 

Boys whose girlfriends are pregnant may require support too but are often overlooked, as initial attention is focused on the young woman who is pregnant. Young men may need advice and information about becoming a young father.

 

iVillage – help and support for teenage mums.

Like it is – information and advice for teenage parents.

DirectGov – teenage pregnancy advice for girls and boys.

Childrenfirst – teenage pregnancy advice for girls.

Youth 2 Youth – a helpline for 11-19 year olds that is run for young people by young people. You can contact them by telephone, email or online chat.

Fatherhood Institute – prepares boys and girls for a future shared role in caring for children.

 

If you haven’t yet taken your GCSEs and find that you are pregnant, Essex County Council can provide you with tuition when you no longer feel able to attend school. Usually, we offer tuition for six weeks before the birth is due and for six weeks following the birth of the baby. However, if your circumstances require it, we may be able to provide tuition for a longer period.

 

Your school will put us in touch with you and provide us with details of when the baby is due. We will do all we can to help you successfully complete your education.

 

 

If your child or a child in your care tells you that they or their girlfriend are pregnant, you may want to access some information or support from a professional. Make an appointment to speak with your GP or visit some of the above websites for advice.

  

If a pupil is of statutory school age and finds that she is pregnant, The Children’s Support Service (CSS) can provide tuition when she is unable to attend school. During this time the pupil should remain on roll of the school.
 
Teaching through CSS is normally available six weeks before and six weeks after the birth of the baby. However, each case is considered on an individual basis and where there are extenuating circumstances and evidence is supplied, it may be possible to provide teaching for a longer period of time.
 
Referrals for support from CSS should be made by the school. You will need to provide the school with the medical evidence, confirming the date the baby is expected. The school will forward this on to us with the referral form.
 
If you have any queries about accessing education you can speak to the senior caseworker in the Children’s Support Service on 01245 436756.