More abortions in Swindon as UK reaches record high

The data shows that in 2022, the latest set of figures to be released, 912 abortions were recorded in 2022, which was up from 777 in 2021 and 725 in 2012.

Of those 912 abortions in Swindon, 32 were for under 18 year olds.

But according to abortion provider MSI Reproductive Choices, this year-on-year increase is a huge concern as they believe it represents a lack of access to contraception due to stretched NHS services and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis meaning that women feel less able to raise a child.

"With so many women around the country experiencing inadequate access to contraception, it’s no surprise that abortion figures are rising," said Dr Sarah Salkeld, UK associate clinical director for MSI Reproductive Choices.

"Greater demand and finite resources for GPs and sexual health clinics are leaving women at risk of unintended pregnancy at a time when families are struggling to make ends meet."

"These pressures disproportionately impact those on the lowest incomes, meaning those hardest hit by the cost-of-living crisis are often more likely to experience an unintended pregnancy in the first place."

The number of abortions recorded across England and Wales has reached a record high (Image: Getty)

The problem isn't just localised to Swindon either, as across England and Wales there were a total number of 251,377 abortions recorded in 2022, which marks a 17 per cent rise from the year before.

This is also the highest number since the Abortion Act was first introduced almost 60 years ago.

A British Pregnancy Advisory Service survey found that of over 1,300 women surveyed in May 2024, 57 per cent suggested that financial factors had either mainly or partly impacted their decision to end a pregnancy.

36 per cent also said they had been unable to access the contraception they wanted or had faced delays, leading to unwanted pregnancies.

Heidi Stewart, Bpas chief executive, says she has heard hundreds of "heartbreaking" stories from women under financial pressure.

"The cost-of-living crisis has placed immense strain on women and families, with too many having to choose between financial stability and having a baby," she said.

"No woman should become pregnant because healthcare services are failing to provide women with the contraception they want and need when they need it."

MSI is now calling on the next government to curb the cost of living and focus on women’s health, as well as calling for "accurate, non-stigmatising information" for younger people.

"Inclusive, evidence-based sex and relationships education is more important than ever," said a spokesperson for the group.