THE prevention of teenage pregnancies in Preston has been given top priority by the town's Primary Care Group.

Studies have revealed that high rates of teenage conceptions are linked to deprivation and poverty, poor educational attainment and vulnerable young people in, or leaving, the care system.

Ribbleton, Avenham and Deepdale - areas which have problems relating to deprivation and poverty - have the highest levels of teenage pregnancy in Preston.

Ingol was also identified as an area where additional support is required for young people and an appraisal is currently under way to identify the type of support they require.

At a recent multi-agency conference to develop a parenting strategy for Preston, various local agencies agreed to get involved and help fund any action.

It was agreed that parents should be involved in planning.

Teenage parenting and adolescent health was identified as a local priority when the PCG former earlier this year, along with ischaemic heart disease.

Judith Mills, chief executive of Preston's PCG, said: "The need to improve the health of young people and support teenage parents was highlighted in the Health Improvement Programme for action by all agencies in the community.

"The initiative represents Preston PCG's contribution to the health authority's plan."

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