PREGNANCY OPTIONS CENTRE

01243 784177

Free non-judgemental support for unplanned pregnancy, post abortion or pregnancy loss.

Pregnancy Options Centre provides essential support for individuals facing a range of challenging situations related to pregnancy and sexual health. Our services are crucial for addressing the emotional and practical needs of those navigating these complex issues. We offer a safe and supportive space for individuals facing unplanned pregnancy, providing them with the space and resources they need to make informed decisions about their future. We recognise the emotional turmoil that an unplanned pregnancy can cause, and we are committed to helping individuals navigate this experience with compassion and understanding.

In addition, we provide comprehensive support for those dealing with the aftermath of abortion or pregnancy loss. We understand that these experiences can be deeply distressing, and we offer counselling and other resources to help individuals heal and move forward.

Beyond counselling, we are dedicated to improving sexual health education for young people. We recognise the alarming lack of adequate and evidence-based education in this area, which contributes to high rates of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Our efforts to promote comprehensive sexual health education aim to empower young people with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
Pregnancy Options Centre plays a vital role in addressing the needs of individuals facing a range of pregnancy-related challenges. Our services provide essential support, empower informed decision-making, and contribute to improved sexual health outcomes for individuals and communities.

Why we do it

Unexpected pregnancy can trigger a surge of emotions, from shock and fear to worry or delight. Pregnancy Options Centre provides a supportive environment for individuals to process their feelings and make informed decisions about their next steps. Despite being a common experience, abortion can be emotionally challenging for many. Financial constraints often hinder individuals from seeking adequate support. We believe this situation needs to change.The emotional impact of pregnancy loss can be immediate or take weeks to surface. It has been linked to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. We empower individuals to navigate their emotions and emerge stronger.

Current sexual health education for young people falls short. A 2023 survey revealed that 70% of young people lack access to adequate, evidence-based sex education. Despite being mandated by the National School Curriculum, schools receive minimal funding and training to provide comprehensive Relationships and Sexual Education. A majority of students lack the opportunity to ask questions during classes or discuss the subject at home. Who, then, is left to guide them?

STI rates and unplanned pregnancies are disproportionately high among individuals under 25. Coupled with the alarming statistics of teenage relationship abuse and revenge porn, it is evident that we must revolutionise our approach to educating our children.

Our impact on the community

In 2023 our volunteer team dedicated over 250 hours of free counselling, responding to 119 client referrals.
In 2023, 59% of our clients came for unplanned pregnancy, 13% came for post abortion support and 18% for miscarriage counselling. Our education work delivered 120 workshops to over 2800 students aged 11-18 years old.

" The sessions helped me to dig deeper and then release emotions. It was very helpful. I can now talk without feeling the shame and guilt. I have freedom. I feel ready for the future, more confident."
- Post abortion client

“I can't thank you enough for today. After spending just one hour talking to you I felt a huge sense of relief. You were very understanding and not at all judgmental which was very important for me and allowed me to be completely honest and open.”
- Post miscarriage client

"‘My experience has been amazing. I was struggling with coming to a decision and it wasn’t until I could come to this safe space where there was no judgement or expectation that I could fully centre myself and get to the right decision for me. I hope all women who are struggling find these services.
– Unplanned Pregnancy Client.

Without donations we would not be able to make any of this happen. Your donation allows us to train volunteers, run our helpline, provide counselling support and outreach with other local organisations and grow our service to meet the desperate need of people facing an unplanned pregnancy, struggling with pregnancy loss and abortion. We have a waiting list of people needing our help but without donations we cannot increase our reach.

Chwilio am wirfoddolwyr

Options are looking for a volunteer Treasurer to support the work of the charity. The role will involve working with the CEO and The Board of Trustees on the charity’s financial matters. If you are interested in volunteering, please send an email outlining your suitability to the role to Anna Madge on office@optionschichester.org.uk

Beth allai eich rhodd ei sicrhau

£25

Covers the cost of our crisis helpline for one month.

£80

Will pay for one counselling session for someone in need

£160

two education sessions aimed to empower and equip young people to navigate relationships.

Codi arian i ni!

Gwybodaeth am yr elusen

PREGNANCY OPTIONS CENTRE

Rhif ffôn: 01243 784177

Cyfeiriad: St Johns House, St Johns Street, Chichester Sussex PO19 1UU

Sefydlwyd yn: 1997