National Youth Homelessness Scheme

Young parents, pregnancy and parenthood

There is specific theme for this group of young people because they, and their children, are particularly vulnerable to poor health outcomes and long-term social exclusion. All the other themes within this module also apply to young parents.

Children of young parents are more likely than children of older parents to have low birth weight, have accidents or be admitted to A&E departments. Teenage mothers are more likely to smoke during pregnancy, half as likely to breastfeed as older mothers and are disproportionately likely to suffer from postnatal depression (Social exclusion unit 1999).

A key feature of good practice for these young people is close working with maternity services to ensure that young parents receive appropriate antenatal and postnatal care.  The linked case study demonstrates particularly good partnership working across a range of statutory agencies to deliver a seamless service for teenage parents and pregnant young women.

Good practice for supported housing providers in promoting health and well-being for both teenage parents and their children includes:

  • providing information and guidance on such topics as breastfeeding, nutrition, hygiene and safety. This could be through group or one-to-one sessions
  • arranging on-site sessions by the community midwife or health visitor
  • providing support and guidance on parenting skills, including the importance of play and exploring issues such as shouting and physical punishment
  • running smoking cessation sessions for young people to learn about the harmful effects of smoking on the foetus and babies
  • providing high quality play areas outdoors and indoors

Encouraging healthy eating with young parents has the added benefit of promoting healthy eating for their children and should include healthy weaning foods.

There should also be tailored advice and support on learning and work opportunities. Research has shown that young people find it easier to return to education or employment with only one child. Other young people may wish to complete their families before returning to study and work. A holistic approach that ensures young people have good advice and choices is important in helping young people achieve the best long term outcomes for them and their children.

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