The 2008 Office for National Statistics conception figures show the rate of under 16s falling pregnant decreased by 5.7 per cent between 2007 and 2008.
But the statistics also confirm that the government has missed its target, made in 1999, to halve teenage pregnancy rates by 2010.
The release of the figures coincided with the government's publication of its new teenage pregnancy strategy.
One-to-one sexual health and contraception consultations for 16 year-olds will be piloted as part of the government's the new action plan, Teenage Pregnancy Strategy: Beyond 2010.
Other plans detailed in the strategy include expanding school-based health services, improving sex and relationship education, and creating training materials to help the wider children's workforce support young people with questions and concerns.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
