Becoming a Parent

Benefits
If you are pregnant there are loads of things you will need to think about….the health concerns are dealt with elsewhere - but you also need to know about any benefits you are entitled to - and you may want to consider how you will return to education or training after you have had your baby.

Information on benefits is pretty complicated - basically if you're under 16 and living with your parents, your benefits will depend on their finances - you won't be able to claim any benefit in your own right. You are entitled to free NHS Dental Treatment and free prescriptions, and after the baby is born you - or your parents - can claim Child Benefit for your baby. Even if you live apart from your parents you will still not be eligible for other benefits until you are 16.

If you're between 16 and 17, you are entitled to receive education until you are 19. Once you are 29 weeks pregnant, if you are not in full-time education, you can claim Income Support and a Sure Start Maternity Grant - but if you're studying full-time you wont be able to claim benefits until your baby is born. After your baby is born you are entitled to Child Benefit and Income Support - and you can study full time. There are a number of other benefits available depending on your circumstances - whether you live with your parents, if you are seeking a job, on a training scheme, whether you live with your partner. The Maternity Alliance (www.maternityalliance.org.uk) produce a leaflet with details of benefits - or your local Benefits Office, Sure Start Project or SureStart Plus Adviser will be able to help you sort out what you're entitled to.

If you're over 18, the normal rules for claiming benefit apply - again you can get help and advice from the Benefits Office, Sure Start Project or a Sure Start Plus Advisor.

If you're unsure who to contact to find out about what you're entitled to, your local SureStart Plus Adviser or Teenage Pregnancy Adviser will be able to help you.

  • If you live in Hartlepool contact the SureStart Plus Adviser on 01429 239926
  • If you live in the Middlesbrough area contact the SureStart Plus Adviser on 01642 245539
  • If you live in the Redcar, Guisborough, East Cleveland, Eston, Grangetown, South Bank or Teesville area please phone the Teenage Pregnancy Adviser on 01642 479324
  • If you live in the Stockton, Billingham, Thornaby or Yarm area please phone the Teenage Pregnancy Support Service on 01642 527238