HEALTH and social services in Blackburn and Darwen recently signed an accord to implement much closer working relationships.

Health reporter Roger Airey went along to a support groups for teenage mums -- an example of the partnership in practice.

HAVING children had always been part of Ellen Gardner's plans, but getting pregnant halfway through her GCSEs was not how she had envisaged it.

Early on in her pregnancy she was referred to a support group for young mums-to-be in her position and two years later she still attends, having made scores of friends and received invaluable guidance.

Now, through her involvement with the group, which meets once a week at the Foyer off Montague Street, Blackburn, under the guidance of midwife Karen Cheema, the 18-year-old regularly speaks to high school students about her experiences and even midwifery students at the University of Central Lancashire as a keen advocate of breast-feeding.

With the help of supportive partner Damian, Ellen managed to get ten GCSEs and next year is embarking on a midwifery degree course in Preston, as well as being a mother to 15-month-old Willow.

She said: "When I first found out I was pregnant it was a real shock but I never though it was the end of the world. I was lucky to meet Karen very early on and she told me about the group.

"When you first come here it makes you appreciate that there are other people in the same boat. I've got a lot of really close friends from the group and we help each other out all the time.

"I've been coming to the group for two years and it has helped a lot and given me a lot of confidence. I've learned so much and that's helped me with my career plans by giving me opportunities to speak to people about pregnancy and breast-feeding."

Damian, 19, also attends the group regularly in his keenness to support Ellen.

He said: "There's only ever been one other man come along in the last two years but it doesn't bother me at all. I've wanted to be involved with everything right from the very beginning."

The group is one example of the partnership of health, social services and voluntary agencies responsible for Blackburn with Darwen's Teenage Pregnancy strategy.

Funded by Blackburn with Darwen Council, the strategy is aimed not only at reducing teenage pregnancies but supporting young mothers.

Started by consultant midwife Sheena Byrom in May 2000, the group allows teenage pregnancy midwife Karen to work with pregnant young women.

Sheena said: "Pregnant young women and young parents can often become isolated from their community, dropping out of education, employment and social networks. There is evidence that this sort of isolation can have adverse effects on the long-term health of both parents and their babies.

"Studies also show that teenagers are more likely to smoke, eat a less nutritious diet and are less likely to breast feed their babies."

In her role, Karen has access to all pregnant young women in the borough most of whom welcome the support she is able to offer at what can be a very difficult time in their lives.

She said: "I'm well placed to work with young pregnant women at a time when they are receptive to the advice and support I can provide and I actively encourage them to come along to a support group each week.

"At these sessions young people decide what issues to discuss, and I'm able to facilitate activities that include advice on healthier lifestyles such as the benefits of breastfeeding and exercise; cooking healthy meals on a low budget as well as advice on the advantages of not smoking.

"The weekly group isn't just about advice on health issues and parenting skills, its also very much about young women supporting and encouraging each other at a time when they are struggling to come to terms with their pregnancy."