TARGETED initiatives identifying young people at risk as well as increased access to contraception has helped reduce the rate of under 18s becoming pregnant by more than a quarter.
Teenage pregnancy rates in Brighton & Hove have fallen since the base-line year in 1998 by 26.5% to 36.9 per 1,000. This places the City in the top achieving authorities and 21st in the country for delivering the biggest change.
The figures follow an overhaul of how the City works to prevent unplanned pregnancy and improve sexual health. Last May new services were launched to engage more effectively with young people, including tailored opening hours for young people, increased confidentiality, straight-talking literature and swift online referrals to specialist services.
More than 200 teenagers each year considered ‘at risk’ of unplanned pregnancy have one to one support packages provided, that cover the dangers of alcohol misuse, the role of contraception and the importance of delaying sex until they are ready.
Sex and relationships education, designed to bolster skills, knowledge and improve attitudes, provided by the local curriculum, has also been provided in schools and community settings such as youth clubs. Delivered by both council and voluntary sector services this has also helped professionals identify those most at risk and provide tailored support.
Brighton & Hove City Council Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Cllr Sue Shanks said: “We have improved our services and this is showing signs of success.
“Together with our partners in the community, we have designed effective ways to engage with under 18-year-olds and I think it will encourage more to access our important services.
“Key factors have been opening up contraception and sexual health services more and focused early intervention work.
“Teenage parents and their children are at increased risk of living in poverty and suffer poorer health than other residents so it is good news that services are being continually improved.
“Not only are we identifying those at risk earlier, but we are educating young people about the role that alcohol can play, the need to use contraception properly and to get good advice about sex.”
Article courtesy of Love Brighton, the free weekly paper for Brighton and Hove.
