PREGNANCY crisis centre, the Willow Tree, is to launch its schools' sex and relationship education programme in the next few weeks.

The Yate-based charity received a grant, which it used to train two presenters in the Evaluate programme, a multi-media presentation for pupils aged 11 and over.

The programme is now available to schools in the Greater Bristol area.

Joy Fussell, of the Willow Tree, said: "Evaluate aims to challenge attitudes and prejudices, to give teenagers the awareness that they are unique and valuable individuals, and empower them to make healthy and informed choices.

"The material explores how the media, peer pressure, drugs and alcohol influence young people, and gives information on pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and contraception. "Evaluate has been well received in other areas, with schools commenting that they wish they had known about it sooner."

The Willow Tree opened at the end of 2004 in the St Nicholas Family Centre, Chargrove, Yate, and according to Mrs Fussell, has got off to "an encouraging start".

She said: "We are there to support anyone in a crisis pregnancy, or in need of help and advice after a still birth, miscarriage or abortion."

The Willow Tree Centre is open Mondays and Tuesdays (10.30am-12.30pm), Wednesdays (2-4pm) and other times by appointment - call 01454 324080.