Supporting Young Parents: Pregnancy and Parenthood among Young People from Care

This book explores pregnancy and parenthood from the perspective of young people in care and care leavers, based on findings from qualitative research. Using real-life comments from young mothers and fathers, it offers a clear insight into why teenage pregnancies occur and attempts to demonstrate that such pregnancies are not necessarily negative. It brings into focus the positive aspects of young parenthood and how these can sometimes offer stability and the security of family life.

The professionals interviewed identify a lack of resources as the key concern when supporting pregnant teenagers and young parents who have been in care. The importance of listening to young people is reinforced, as is the need to provide specialist foster care to ensure transparent placements where a balance between support, guidance and assessment can be achieved. Such placements can provide warm, nurturing and non-judgmental environments for young people and their children to experience family life, learn parenting skills and promote positive attachments.