UK Jobseekers who reject help for alcohol and drug addiction face benefits cut

Unemployed people suspected of suffering from alcoholism or drug addiction will have their benefits cut if they refuse treatment for their condition, the work and pensions secretary, Iain Duncan Smith, will signal on Wednesday. In a sign of the government's new benefits regime, which lies at the heart of Duncan Smith's cost-cutting welfare changes, staff in Jobcentre Plus offices will be encouraged...

Overdue babies risk behavioural problems

Overdue babies are at higher risk of health problems, research suggests. A study found babies born after 42 weeks were more likely to suffer behavioural problems such as ADHD in early life. Most UK mothers are induced before 42 weeks but pregnancies lasting beyond 43 weeks are not unknown. Women should be aware of the risks of prolonging pregnancy, experts report in the International Journal of...

Geordie lasses make North East the UK’s booziest region

Horrified experts found girls there aged 21 and under now top the list of shame for getting plastered in England and Wales. More are nicked by local Northumbria cops for being drunk and disorderly than anywhere else. Meanwhile the number of under-18s in the area being treated for drink problems is DOUBLE the national average. Shocked Colin Shevills, head of health campaign organisation Balance...

Group warns of area alcohol problem

Twice as many young people living in the North East of England receive treatment for alcohol problems compared with the rest of the country, a study has found. Figures from health campaign group Balance show 118 of every 100,000 under 18s in the North East were treated for drink problems - double the national average. More than 600 of the 9,450 people receiving specialist alcohol treatment in the...

Drug-drivers to face jail time under new law

Drivers found to have taken drugs face a prison sentence of up to six months and a fine of up to £5,000 under new legislation, ministers reveal on Monday. Plans to make driving while under the influence of drugs an offence will be included in a crime, communications and courts bill that will be in the Queen's speech on Wednesday. Offenders will also face an automatic driving ban. Police forces are...