Having children

The age of consent for having sex in the UK is 16 so, in the eyes of the law, you shouldn't be having children under 16. However, the law recognises that young people under 16 do have sex, and they do have children, so it is highly unlikely you would get into trouble for having a baby.

It's worth bearing in mind that if you are under 16 you are not eligible for any benefits, even if you do have a child.

There are charities, like Gingerbread, who are there help and advise lone parents on matters such as their rights, benefits and money matters.

You can find out more about what, if any, benefits you are eligible for here

There is more information on this site about having a baby with other links to useful organisations.


 

Related Articles

  • Contraception FAQs

    Still got questions about contraception and emergency contraception? Check out the most frequently asked questions here.

  • Could you be pregnant?

    There is a risk of pregnancy is sperm comes in to contact with a woman's vagina in any way including from sperm on fingers.

  • Emergency contraception

    Emergency contraception can be used to help prevent an unwanted pregnancy up to five days after sex. Find out more on this page.

  • Find your nearest service

    Find your nearest young people's service, family planning clinic or sexual health service here. Plus, information on which service might be the best one for you to look for.

  • Having A Baby

    If you are pregnant and decide to have the baby, there is a lot of information and support you'll need to make sure you have a healthy and safe pregnancy and birth. Find out more here.

  • Useful links

    Useful web links and places to get help and advice.

My Contraception Tool

Check out the new My Contraception Tool

More

Say 'Yes' to 21st Century SRE!

Press release about survey

Al Murray and guests - 13 January

Find out more

Book your place - 15 March 2012

Book now

Most read

  • Abortion

    Abortion means choosing to end a pregnancy so that you don't have a baby. Find out more about...

  • Types of contraception

    There are lots of methods of contraception...bet you can't name them all! Click here to find out...

  • Contraception

    If you are planning to have sex, the best way to prevent pregnancy is to use contraception. And...

  • Types of STIs

    This is where you can find detailed information on individual infections like chlamydia, herpes,...

  • Emergency contraception

    Emergency contraception can be used to help prevent an unwanted pregnancy up to five days after...