With the average age of a first-time mother now close to 30, Auckland’s changing demographics make it hard for teenage mums to find anti-natal classes that cater to their needs.

 

Auckland Women’s Centre offers a free teen antenatal programme, supporting expectant young mothers as they come to accept

their pregnancy. It aims to improve mental health, parenting and life management skills, encourage healthy relationships and help new mothers fi nd ways to continue their education.

It also runs a teen parent programme to increase participants’ sense of belonging, enhancing self esteem and showing how to access government and community agency support.

In 2007/08 an ASB Community Trust grant supported the Auckland Women’s Centre’s operational and programme costs.

www.awc.org.nz