A SCHEME to improve the health of youngsters and cut the number of teenage pregnancies across Worcester has been launched in the city.

Over 2 U has begun in the Tolladine area of Worcester, and will soon be spreading out to Brickfields and other districts.

The scheme brings together advisers on subjects ranging from drink and drugs to sexual health and many other topics.

It has been developed by the Teenage Health task group, and was given cash by Worcester City Primary Care Group, Worcester City Council, West Mercia Police and the European Social Fund.

It provides more than 80 hours a week of health-focused support from eight youth and community development workers.

"One of the main aims of the project is to cut the number of teenage pregnancies, but there are many other things which we cover and can give advice about," said Wendy Freear, project leader.

"We basically wanted to raise the awareness of young people about their general health and show them what information is available for them."

The project is aimed at 11 to 18-year-olds, and deals with all areas of teenage life including quitting smoking, contraception and self-esteem.

It is based at community centres for three nights a week, and also has an outreach section which visits some schools and youth centres.

At the moment, Over 2 U is based at Tolladine Community Centre from 3.45pm to 5pm on Thursday nights, and is open to everyone.

In a few weeks, the project will be extended to KDS at Brickfields playing fields on Monday evenings from 3.45pm to 5pm, and Elbury Mount school from 3.45pm to 5pm on Wednesday.