Council leaders have warned that teenage pregnancies are beginning to rise again after decades of progress, calling for urgent Government action to support local authorities.
Since the launch of the Teenage Pregnancy Strategy 25 years ago, under-18 conception rates have fallen by 70%, with the steepest declines in the most deprived areas. But recent increases in conceptions and abortions, alongside falling condom use, signal what the Local Government Association (LGA) calls ‘lost momentum.’
Investing in teenage pregnancy programmes not only improves outcomes for young people but also eases pressure on public services, saving £4 for every £1 spent through reduced demand on health, social care, housing and education, according to the LGA.
The LGA is urging ministers to restore national leadership, deliver a new sexual and reproductive health strategy, improve local data, and invest in prevention. Without this, it warns, teenage pregnancy rates could climb further, undermining public health and widening inequalities.
Cllr Dr Wendy Taylor, chair of the LGA’s Health and Wellbeing Committee, said: ‘Teenage pregnancy is not just a public health issue, it’s about safeguarding, education, and social justice. Supporting young parents is equally vital to improving outcomes and breaking cycles of disadvantage.
‘We urge the Government to act now, restore national leadership for local delivery and invest in prevention and early help to stop any further rise in teenage pregnancies.’
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