Becoming a parent is a life changing event. Make sure you take advantage of all the help and support available to you.
Am I pregnant?
It's important you take a reliable pregnancy test. If you are pregnant make an appointment to see your GP as soon as possible. If you are not pregnant then you need to think seriously about your contraception options.
The Parallel is Bolton's health and well-being service designed specifically for young people aged 11-19. They provide a range of services including help with contraception and family planning advice. They are based at 9a Churchgate, Bolton, BL1 1HU. Check their website for details of opening times or contact them on 01204 462444.
You and Your Baby
It's important you take good care of your health whilst pregnant and after the birth. You will be allocated a Health Visitor who will provide you with advice. Smoking and drinking alcohol can cause serious harm to your baby as it develops in the womb, so you should avoid these altogether. Help is available to quit smoking from the NHS Pregnancy Smoking Helpline - 0800 169 9 169.
Continuing your education
Becoming a parent should not stop you from finishing or continuing your education and getting qualifications to help you find work. If you are still at school when you become pregnant you will be given the opportunity to continue your education at the Young Mums' Unit where specialist health workers visit on a regular basis. If you are at college or sixth form you can get help from Bolton's Teenage Parent Inclusion and Support Officer.
Care to Learn
If you are a mum or dad under 20 and you are still in learning you can get financial help to help you pay for childcare and travel costs with Care to Learn. Ring the Learner Support Helpline on 0800 121 8989 or log on to www.direct.gov.uk/caretolearn for more information and an application pack.
Child Care
Bolton Families Information Service can help you identify local child care providers. Contact them on 01204 332170 or visit your nearest Children's Centre. The Daycare Trust also have a website where you can find information about paying for childcare. They also produce a range of factsheets to help you consider your childcare options including choosing quality childcare.
Money and Benefits
For help with Child Benefit contact the Child Benefit Helpline on 0845 302 1444.
To find out about Child Tax Credits use the Direct.gov website to see if you qualify.
If you are under 18 and pregnant or a parent use Gingerbread's online calculator to find out what you might be entitled to.
Support and Advice
If you are struggling to cope with your responsibilities as a parent there are a lot of organisations that can provide you with help, advice and in some cases practical support. Your local Children's Centre is a good starting point. You'll also find details of other local and national support groups and organisations on our Pregnancy and Parenting handout.