Teenage pregnancy - frequently asked questions

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Index of Content

• What are the benefits entitlements for teenagers?
• What type of childcare access is available for teenage parents?
• Are there any Young Parents’ support group in Wiltshire?
• Where can I access the directory for Young People?

What are the benefits entitlements for teenagers?

The benefits system is particularly complicated for teenagers. One Parent Families offer a factsheet titled "Money for Teenage Parents". This leaflet sets out what benefits you might get depending on your age, where you live and whether or not you are doing any work or training. The leaflet also explains how you go about accessing these benefits. The information in the leaflet applies if you are aged 17 or under.

If you are aged 18 or over the normal rules of entitlement to benefit apply.

What type of childcare access is available for teenage parents?

The “Care to Learn” fund for England provides childcare and transport costs to young parents who are involved in education and training. Details of the “Care to Learn” fund can be accessed directly from the Care to Learn DCSF (Department for Children, Schools and Familiesls) website. Their helpline number is 0845 600 2809.  Your local Connexions Personal Advisor will be able to help you (08700 632055)

Some common questions regarding “Care to Learn” fund are as follows:

Who will pay for my childcare and travel to it?

We will pay for your childcare and any necessary travel costs up to £160 per child per week to get you to and from your child carer, once your application has been agreed.

How will my childcare and travel be paid?

We will pay your childcare provider direct and pay your course provider so they can fund your travel.

What things will you pay for?

• childcare costs while you learn, are on placement, study or travel;
• any deposit normally charged;
• a trial before the learning starts;
• childcare fees you must pay during holidays; and
• your necessary travel expenses to and from you child carer.

How will this childcare affect my own or my family's benefits or allowances?

This will NOT affect your own or your family's benefits or allowances. You DO NOT have to be on benefits in order to have your childcare paid.

How do I know if I will get help?

You must:

• be under 20 and are learning or training;
• start a course in a school, college or as a trainee with a work based learning provider that is publicly funded;
• be caring for your own child(ren) - dads are also eligible;
• be living in England; and
• use a registered childcare provider.

HELPLINE 0845 600 2809

Are there any Young Parents’ support group in Wiltshire?

Some areas have groups specifically for young parents:

Chippenham Young Parents' Group, The Bridge Centre, Chippenham
Tuesdays 1.00 - 2.30pm
Contact:  Sarah Colquhoun (Health Visitor)
Tel:  01249 448422

Malmesbury Young Parents' Group, Silveston Way, Malmesbury
Wednesdays 1.00 - 3.00pm
Contact: Stephanie Knight (Outreach Worker)
Tel:  01249 463907

Devizes Young Parents' Group, Devizes Youth Centre, Southbroom, London Rd, The Green, Devizes
Thursdays 1.15 - 3.15pm
Contact: Julie Nipress (Youth Worker)
Tel:  01380 722598

Tisbury Young Parents' Group, 'The Point' (Youth Centre), Weavelands Rd, Tisbury
Alternate Fridays 12 - 2pm
Contact Jaki Farrell (Youth Worker)
Tel:  01747 871454

New groups are springing up all the time, in different areas - for up to date information, contact the Children's Information Service on 08457 585072.

Where can I access the Wiltshire Young Parent's Guide?

Copies are available at your local Connexions office.  A copy is included in the pregnancy pack which is given to each pregnant teenager and their partner when they book with the midwife.  Further copies are available from the teenage pregnancy team (contact 01249 454517).

Last updated: 29 April 2009