TEENAGE pregnancy rates in St Helens have risen to be the highest in country once again after a sharp increase during the second quarter of last year, new statistics have revealed.

Figures issued by the Office for National Statistics have shown that in June 2014 conceptions among girls aged 15 to 17 had risen to 48.7 per 1,000, with 37 pregnancies having taken place since March.

This was a rise of more than 50 per cent from the March figure which was 31.9 per 1,000 women and also indicates a hike of just more than 25 per cent compared with one year earlier in June 2013.

The numbers were revealed amidst a backdrop of falling teenage pregnancies across England and Wales as a whole, but the North West region accounted for the highest number with 924 out of 5,740 in total.

Director of public health at the council, Liz Gaulton admitted that the numbers revealed "an unexpected rise in teenage pregnancies in St Helens" but stressed that it was not until the full year's figures were released next February that any "clear trends" could be identified.

She added: “The overall number of teenage pregnancies is comparatively small – which is why a mere handful of additional cases can suddenly make all the difference.

“Across St Helens, easy to access sexual health services like our TAZ (Teen Advice Zone) clinic, have helped trigger a decrease in unintended pregnancies among under 18s.

“The number of teenagers becoming pregnant in St Helens has reduced from 216 in 2008 to 106 in 2013 - a fall faster than both the regional and national averages.

“However we recognise that this is still a local challenge and are working with young people, schools and other partners to reduce the level even further.”

Young people can seek support from TAZ on 01744 675665, emailing Taz@sthelens.gov.uk or via www.tazsh.com.