Teenage Conception Rate Falls by More Than 15% in Barking and Dagenham
Barking and Dagenham has recorded one of the largest reductions in teenage conceptions in London, according to newly published figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The latest data shows the borough’s under-18 conception rate fell from 14.5 per 1,000 young women in 2022 to 12.3 in 2023, representing a reduction of more than 15 per cent in just 12 months.
The improvement means Barking and Dagenham has moved from having the second-highest teenage conception rate in London to the sixth-highest. It also outperformed both the London and national averages, with the capital recording a seven per cent reduction over the same period, while England saw a fall of 2.9 per cent.
The figures, analysed by the Teenage Pregnancy Knowledge Exchange at the University of Bedfordshire, reflect continued efforts across the borough to improve access to relationships and sex education, sexual health services and support for young people.
Schools, NHS services, public health teams, youth organisations and voluntary groups have all worked together to provide young people with information, advice and services aimed at helping them make informed decisions and access support when needed.
Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Housing, Adult Social Care and Health, welcomed the figures, saying:
“These figures are extremely encouraging and demonstrate the positive impact of the work taking place across Barking and Dagenham to support young people. This achievement has been made possible through the dedication of our schools, health partners, youth services and community organisations, all working together to help young people make informed choices and access the support they need.”
While Barking and Dagenham continues to have a higher under-18 conception rate than many other London boroughs, the latest statistics suggest the gap is narrowing, with the borough recording one of the strongest year-on-year improvements in the capital.
The figures are based on conception data for 2023 published by the Office for National Statistics and released in June 2026.