Education and training support for pregnant teenagers

25/9/03
Education and Training Minister Alan Carpenter today announced an innovative TAFEWA program to increase education and training opportunities for pregnant teenagers.
Mr Carpenter said the HIP (Help In Pregnancy) program would be run by West Coast College of TAFE in collaboration with the Department for Community Development, North Metropolitan Health Service and Centrelink Joondalup.
"The HIP program aims to give pregnant teenagers better education and training opportunities during their pregnancy and help them develop skills in antenatal care and parenting," the Minister said.
"Importantly, it will provide these young women with an accredited Year 10 equivalent so they can continue with their education and training at a later stage of their lives."
Mr Carpenter said the program complemented the Gallop Government's commitment to improving the education and training opportunities for 15 to 19-year-olds.
The Minister said a key aspect of the program was to build the confidence of the young women, empower them to manage their own lives during and after pregnancy and give them skills to develop and sustain support networks after the birth of their babies.
"This innovative program aims to break down some of the traditional social and logistical barriers experienced by young pregnant women," he said.
"Pregnant teenagers often face special challenges, so the program has a significant focus on developing skills to help the teenagers better manage their pregnancy, themselves as parents and the future needs of their child."
Centrelink has confirmed that young pregnant women receiving Newstart Allowance or Youth Allowance may be able to undertake the course as an approved activity. This means they will not have to look for work for the duration of the course.
The first HIP program will start on October 14 and West Coast College of TAFE is currently taking registrations from interested young women.
For further information on the HIP Program, contact program director Anzara Clark on 9233 1065.
Minister's office: 9213 6800