HIGHER than average rates of teenage pregnancy in Christchurch have led to the appointment of a specialist midwife for teenagers.

Claire Bath, 43, is usually based at Highcliffe Medical Centre.

But on Mondays for the next two years she will be organising pregnancy testing and dispensing confidential advice to teenagers at Mum 2 B based in Ladders Young People's Centre, 45 Bargates, Christchurch.

Claire says: "It's a fantastic job. It's great. You can really make a difference to people's lives."

Her aim is to provide additional support for pregnant young women, many of whom will not have husbands or partners.

"The problems they encounter socially are going to be very much more different than those in much more stable relationships living with their partners," said Claire.

The crucial time for mums-to-be is in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy when information on diet and life-style are very important to the health of an unborn child.

"They can access me by mobile phone or by text. Or they can call into Ladders on Monday where we will have a group session, or I can come to their home or I will meet them in McDonald's if they feel like it."

Every effort will be made help teenagers when they visit Claire at Ladders. Lunch will be provided from a nearby coffee shop and bus fares refundable.

Contact Claire on 07776 426868.

First published: October 5