If you are a young mum or teenager who is pregnant, there are a wide range of services to support you during pregnancy and after you have had your baby.
Unplanned pregnancies
If you have had unprotected sex and are concerned that you might be pregnant, you can get a pregnancy test from your GP, sexual health and contraception clinic or local pharmacy. All support is private and confidential. For information see the Caryl Thomas and sexual health clinic
Support and advice is also available from Brook
Carrying on with your education while you’re pregnant
Becoming a mother doesn't have to mean the end of your education. If you are still of compulsory school age your school should not exclude you because you are pregnant or due to health and safety issues connected with your pregnancy. They may talk to you about making alternative arrangements for your education. You will be allowed up to 18 calendar weeks off school before and after the birth.
After your return to education, you can receive help with childcare costs through the Care to Learn scheme. Care to Learn also provides support with childcare costs for teenage parents above compulsory school age who want to take up learning. For more information about Care to Learn contact them by telephone: 0800 121 8989.
Finding somewhere to live when you’re pregnant
Many young mothers want to carry on living with their own family until they are ready to move on. If you are unable to live with your family, your local authority may be able to help you with housing. For more information see the housing advice webpage.
The Young Woman’s Guide to Pregnancy
A free online guide to pregnancy is available through the charity Tommy's