The conference will highlight areas of excellent practice within the voluntary and statutory sectors in the UK and Ireland

Ann-Marie Gray Report author

The report also recommends the introduction of a child care allowance for mothers who chose to stay in or return to full-time education.

Deirdre Fullerton, author of the report, said a recurring theme during her interviews with young women and professionals was the need for improved sex education in schools.

"No follow-up support is available to young mothers wishing to continue with their education post 16," she said.

"Access to quality child care continues to be a major barrier to completing formal education and training."

The report calls for more information and access to contraceptive services and counselling and the removal of health and safety excuses for denying pregnant pupils from receiving full-time education.

'Integrated policies'

Organisers said the conference aimed to raise the support needs of young parents and address matters relative to young parents on both sides of the border.

Event organiser Ann-Marie Gray said it was vital that policy "effectively addresses the issues of teenage sexuality and teenage pregnancy".

"It is also important that it responds to the needs of young parents," she said.

"The conference will highlight areas of excellent practice within the voluntary and statutory sectors in the UK and Ireland.

"The challenge is to build on this by developing effective and integrated policies."