THE thought that girls as young as 13 are having sex will leave some readers shocked but others unsurprised.

Likewise the fact that, as a consequence, the morning after pill is to become available over the counter in Worcester as part of a pilot project.

The last time this column considered the issue, we were alarmed by the 1995 and 1996 figures for the number of girls who fell pregnant before the age of 18. In the context of faces in a classroom, one in 20 was a lot.

The work to reverse the trend included pupil-referral units, counselling, anti-bullying initiatives, sex education and a greater awareness of social and health issues.

There's reason for hope, today, that it's working. The morning after pill scheme scheme remains only part of a 37-point strategy to cut pregnancies in the 13 to 18 age group.

And, even though there's been no decrease among under-18s, the under-16s seem to be understanding the message - and taking heed of it.

It means that, far from challenging or criticising the pill initiative - as some people will - we must support it.

For many years, tackling the problem has meant more than "just say no", or offering Carry On-style advice to "tie your laces together".

Every generation thinks it explores the limits of morality. But our youngsters are being bombarded with more and more provocative images than ever - and most of them from so-called role models.

It means that the work city health officials are doing to raise girls' self-esteem is, perhaps, the most vital.

They need to understand the value of the choices they make every day, based on who they are, not who they'd like to be, or be like.

And none of us should feel exempt from playing a part. Long-term, the quality of life for many people in Worcester - many of them yet unborn - will depend on a moral tone set by the community in its widest sense.