M.A.D is the brainchild of East Sussex’s Teenage Pregnancy Strategic Partnership Board, part of the new Children & Young Peoples Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) and has been developed by East Sussex County Council, the County’s four Primary Care Trusts and representatives from Connexions, health, education and social care organisations as well as some young parents.
In addition to reducing the number of conceptions amongst under 18s, the Partnership aims to offer support to young parents and help them overcome any feelings of isolation and loneliness. The strategy also aims to reduce long term social exclusion by raising the number of young parents in full time education or employment.
As Joelle Brogan, Teenage Pregnancy Co-ordinator for East Sussex, explains, "Many young parents feel very isolated and alone. Whether they live in rural areas or larger towns they are still a minority and many do not have the confidence or encouragement to access local services.
"We hope the magazine will raise awareness of the vast range of choices and opportunities available to young parents in East Sussex. We also hope it will be a valuable source of information and service listings for professionals as well.”
Teenage mums have played a big part in producing the magazine – from choosing the name to writing copy and sitting on the editorial board. M.A.D., which is packed with real-life stories and pictures, also includes features on childcare options, financial aid information and advice, and health. Every issue also includes a ‘Your Questions’ page as well as current news and useful contact numbers.
The magazine is keen to involve more parents and is appealing to any young mums or dads who want to share their stories or contribute in any way to the magazine to get in touch.
M.A.D is a quarterly publication which is available from all GPs, schools, family planning clinics, youth information shops, young parent support groups and many parent and baby groups free of charge.
If you are interested in contributing to the magazine then contact Aimie Mallet, East Sussex Teenage Pregnancy Project Worker on 01323 841470 or email aimie.mallet@eastsussexcc.gov.uk.
Notes to editors
The Children & Young Peoples Strategic Partnership Board was set up in response to the Government’s Green Paper "Every Child Matters” and is made up of representatives across the health and social care professions. For more details visit our Young Parents web pages.
Reference:
04/239/HP
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