Teen mums and dads given wider support
8:18am Monday 6th July 2009 in News
TEENAGE mums-to-be are getting more support earlier in their pregnancy, thanks to a new scheme.
Hospital and social services have come together to offer more help to young expectant mothers to prepare them for parenthood.
The midwifery antenatal scheme means teenagers will get the right kind of support much earlier in their pregnancy — which will help the babies and young families.
The programme is also targeting young dads-to-be.
Those behind the project say it will help to tackle social problems associated with very young parents.
Cathy Atherton, head of midwifery at the Royal Bolton Hospital, said: “This new venture is the result of integrated working between health and social care.
“We hope to support young parents at this very important time and to assist them in making decisions.
“The main focus is on improving the wellbeing of young people and their babies.”
Under the new arrangements, a community midwife now offers to see a young woman who is pregnant either at a children’s centre, their own home or at their doctor’s surgery.
An antenatal clinic especially for teenagers has also been set up. It is held every Friday morning at the hospital’s Princess Anne Maternity Unit.
When a young woman has her first appointment at the hospital, in addition to the assessment by a doctor or midwife, she will see a support worker from the teenage pregnancy or Connexions teams.
That person will advise the youngster on a wide range of issues, including education, housing, relationships, work or benefits.
Furthermore, young fathers-to-be are being encouraged to be fully involved with their new family and to see a dad’s worker for advice.
Teenage parents-to-be will be made aware of a children’s centre parents’ group, which can also provide a support network.
After a baby’s birth, help continues with education courses at Rosehill Nursery in Manchester Road, Burnden, and contraception advice.
A Bumps and Babies group is being launched at the Harvey Early Years Centre in Shaw Street, Daubhill, this month. Young parents can meet others and learn more about parenting at this group.
cherry.thomas@ theboltonnews.co.uk
