27/07/04 - Helping hand for young parents : Cumbria County Council

Young parents who want to continue their education or skills training can get a helping hand from a new Government funded scheme called ‘Care2Learn’. The scheme is part of the teenage pregnancy strategy. It ensures that any teenage parent who wants to go back into education or training can access funds up to £5,000 each year to pay for child care costs and travel.

The Teenage Pregnancy Strategy is a multi agency approach to reducing teenage conception rates and supporting teenage parents. The ‘Care2Learn' grant recognises that if a teen parent finishes their education and training or develops new skills, it will open up more opportunities in the long term. Children of teenage parents who do not finish their education are far more likely to experience ill health, poverty and social exclusion. This is because the parent will have a low level of educational achievement making them less likely to gain full employment. Research has shown that this scenario can lead to the child having fewer choices and a higher chance of becoming a teen parent themselves. With additional support, a teen parent can complete their education or training and break the cycle of poverty.

Anyone who would like more information on the Grant can contact Cumbria County Council's Children’s Information Service on 08457 125737 or email childrens.information@cumbriacc.gov.uk

Connexions personal advisers can explore learning opportunities and help apply for the Care 2 Learn grant. For contact details go to the Connexions website.