Mums the word on Sex Education Scheme

Teenage mums have been giving their views on an innovative school sex education project.

A group of young mothers took part in a peer education scheme in secondary schools across Tameside to give pupils a first-hand insight into teenage pregnancy.

They have since met members of Tameside Council's Services for Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel, who first recommended the scheme to go ahead, and Cllr Allison Gwynne, executive member for children and young people, to give feedback on their involvement.

The group, who have visited schools over the past year, talked about their experiences of the project and how they felt they were received by pupils as well as gave their thoughts regarding the training and support their received and how they may have personally benefited.

The panel members and Cllr Gwynne also met with this year's new group of peer educators who are currently training to go into schools.

Cllr Brenda Warrington, who represented the scrutiny panel at the meeting, said: "Young people often find it more helpful to talk to people of their own age or slightly older about sex and relationships; peer educators provide a unique source of information and advice which young people are able to relate to. The scheme also provides important personal development opportunities for the peer educators.

"The Scrutiny Panel was keen to hear about the experiences and views of the young people who have participated in the project. I would like to thank them for taking the time to provide their feedback and help ensure the continued development and success of the scheme."

Peer Education was initiated by staff at Tameside Connexions, who worked with Brook from Oldham and Off The Record to develop this programme, and was given the full support of the Teenage Pregnancy Partnership Board. This is a good example of multi-agency working as it also incorporates other agencies and service such as Housing and Children Centres.