Teen pregnancy rate soaring

At a time when the Government has urged health chiefs across the country to follow Oldham’s lead in reducing teenage pregnancies, Rochdale Online can reveal that teenage pregnancies in the Borough of Rochdale have increased.

In 2008, 241 under 18s fell pregnant across Rochdale Borough, up from 218 the previous year - a 12% increase. In comparison, in 2008, 186 under 18s fell pregnant across Oldham, down from 211 the previous year - a 12 % decrease.

Kate Kennedy, Strategy Manager for Teenage Pregnancy, commented: “The information on conception rates for under-18s during 2008 shows an increase in the borough. This is disappointing and reflects the challenge we face locally.

“We have been working hard to improve services, working closely with over-16s and providing training for teachers. There are more clinics where young people can get advice about contraception and much better access to services. We also have a very good Healthy Schools Partnership which helps parents, young people and schools get the information they need.”

Nationally, teenage pregnancy has fallen to its lowest rate for 20 years. In 1999, the Government pledged to halve teenage pregnancy rates among girls under 18 by 2012.

Ministers yesterday announced £20.5 million to promote the use of contraception and discourage young people from rushing to become sexually active. Health chiefs across the country will share £10 million of the fund to ensure contraception is available “in the right places at the right time.”