The West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust together with their partner’s Dacorum Primary Care Trust and Watford and Three Rivers Primary Care trust received the prestigious “2003 Partnership in Health Award” at a recent presentation for their work with pregnant teenagers and vulnerable young families.

The West Herts Partnership for Teenage Pregnancy programme offers a multi-agency, holistic approach to vulnerable young families, providing group support, education, health promotion, parenting skills and advocacy.

Michelle Kukielka, Teenage Pregnancy Midwife Co-ordinator said: “I am absolutely delighted that our partnership received this award and the huge effort made by so many partners has been recognised. The £750 prize money will help fund future group projects.”

Gill Goodlad, Health Improvement Manager, Dacorum Primary Care Trust said: “This success shows how valuable working in partnership can be. It ensures improved services for young women and sets a good example for all professionals.”

Steve Reynolds, Health Promotion Adviser, Watford and Three Rivers PCT said: - “I am very pleased that Michelle’s hard work and commitment has been recognised.”

The aim of the programme is to develop, establish, implement and evaluate a multi-agency programme that is accessible to all pregnant teenagers in west Hertfordshire along with their partners, families and friends.