A PILOT course aimed at preparing pregnant young women for motherhood proved such a success it will be run again.

Swindon has one of the highest rates of teenage pregnancy in the country, with latest figures for the town indicating that 12 in every 1,000 girls under the age of 16 in Swindon becomes pregnant

The high level of teenage pregnancy in the town has led the Government to demand a 55 per cent cut in the rate by 2010.

The course provides an opportunity for young girls in the same position to share their experiences and concerns, as well as giving them vital information about motherhood.

Starting on Tuesday, the course will run two days a week for 12 weeks and focuses on issues including:

Coping with the birth: what the birth will be like, how to cope, available choices, pain relief and how to make a birth plan.

Support: how to communicate and cope with changes in relationships.

Financial help: claiming benefits and taking control of finances.

Parenting: finding out about the baby's development and how to care for him or her.

Planning for the future: how to build on the skills they already have and advice on how fill in application forms and computer skills.

The course is free and participants will receive an allowance towards their costs.

A crucial element of the course is encouraging teenagers to think beyond having their child and to think about the future.

By completing the 12-week programme, those taking part will qualify for an NVQ1 childcare qualification that will help them get back into education or to start a job.

If you or someone you know would like more information, call Gail McKay on Swindon 437573.

Swindon's Youth Clinic, at the Carfax Health Centre, is open for advice on contraception, pregnancy testing and all other medical matters from 4.30pm to 6.30pm on Tuesdays.

No appointment is necessary. Contact Swindon 426248.