Speaking at an event organised by the Institute for Public Policy Research North think-tank, Hilary Armstrong said that although the teenage pregnancy strategy has had some success, teen pregnancy rates in the UK are still five or six times higher than other European countries.
Armstrong also used her first speech in the newly created role to outline other priority areas of work, including looked-after children. "Children in care present a profound challenge," she said. "One cannot but be struck by how certain other countries, such as Denmark and Germany, appear to do so much better for their kids in care."
She said the solution to the overall problems of social exclusion may lie in more early intervention and preventive work. She also spoke about the importance of programmes that increase young people's self-esteem, giving them confidence to have higher aspirations and take responsibility for their actions.
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