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28/10/2013

BBC Radio 1 - Radio 1 Stories, 16 Plus

What is it like to turn 16 in 2013? Four teens explain how it changed their lives forever.

What is it like to turn 16 in 2013? Following four incredible teens over several months, Radio 1 finds out how turning 16 changed their lives forever.

What is it like to be 16 in 2013? This programme follows 4 incredible teens over several months, as they turn 16 and their lives are changed forever. 

As he approached the age of 16, Matt from West Sussex was diagnosed with bone cancer and underwent an operation on his 16th birthday. 16 Plus follows Matt's treatment and recovery, and his quest to get back to school.

Elle from the Isle of Wight discovered she was pregnant when she was close to her 16th birthday. She is now facing the difficult decision of whether to keep the baby or give it away. 

Salisbury-born Devlin joined the army at 16 and is now a Junior Soldier. But the journey to graduation isn't easy and many Junior Soldiers don't make it. Will Devlin? And, if so, how will he cope in his final training course, as the prospect of becoming a real soldier sinks in?

Kylie, from Huntingdon, is a young carer to her mum, who has multiple sclerosis. Just 16 and with her extra responsibilities, she's not certain that she will she get the GCSEs she needs to get into college. And if she does, her next dilemma awaits as she considers whether she can juggle college with caring for her mum.

As well as hearing about some of the extra pressures some 16 year olds face, 16 Plus looks at what it's like for most 16 year olds today. Expert speakers include Sue Minto, the Head of Childline; the National Careers Service; and Caroline Davey from Gingerbread, an organisation which helps single and teen parents. Topics from education to unemployment are explored, as presenter Aled seeks to uncover just how tough it can be to turn 16 in 2013.

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