Parent support system to go nationwide

A system of support for teenage parents is to be extended across the country.

The Teen Parent Support Pilot Initiative wil draw together many support services which already exist.

However, Lorna Ryan, the author of an evaluation of the initiative says that although it was very successful, more needs to be done - especially for teenage fathers.

"There's need for support for inter-agency and networks in forum. There needs to be national funding schemes to support young parents in education and training," Ms Ryan said.

"There also needs to be further support and training for young fatherst," she added.