Supporting teenagers who are pregnant or parents. Sure Start Plus national evaluation : executive summary.

The Sure Start Plus pilot program was implemented in England to target support services to teen parents. The initiative was intended to reduce social isolation and improve parenting skills, health care, housing opportunities, and child care. Through a variety of models, Sure Start Plus offered individual advisors, advocacy, group therapy, and parenting classes. This executive summary presents an overview of the program and highlights the findings of an evaluation. The review indicated that crisis services, parenting activities, and health assistance were successful in helping the young women achieve the level of social support necessary for long-term well-being. The program was less effective in the areas of health, behavior education, and support for teen fathers. The evaluation also concluded that the program was under-funded. Recommendations address the responsibilities of personal advisors; the assignment of specialists for education, health, and mental health; support for pregnancy options; management; and needs assessment.