Experts are warning that the number of people suffering from dementia will almost double in the next 25 years. At the moment dementia costs Scotland £1.4 billion as 58,000 people here suffer from it.

A man separated from his mum two days after his birth has called in police to investigate the social workers who kept them apart. David Morgan was given up for foster care by mum Catherine in 1967. But she changed her mind two days later.

Vulnerable children in Midlothian have been left in high risk situations because of failings in the local social work department. The council’s deputy leader and its social work director have resigned in the wake of a report, which suggested that staff were guilty of neglect and incompetence. 

A Perth community group is claiming re-development proposals for a prime hospital site could ruin part of the city. The controversial plans for Murray Royal Hospital include a new medium secure unit and 200 homes.

Children who are visibly involved in their communities make people feel safer and help create stronger neighbourhoods, according to research. A study by the Economic and Social Research Council found, contrary to public opinion, children play a key role in developing strong community spirit and safe neighbourhoods.

Two sex offenders released into the community in Scotland are being forced to wear an electronic tag – one for the next 10 years – because they are considered such a risk to society.

A former health minister is calling for a radical rethink on drugs policy. Former Labour MSP, Susan Deacon, who is not standing for re-election, said politicians from all parties should stop talking tough on drugs.

More than 40 staff from Scotland’s care watchdog are celebrating success in a pioneering new course designed to help drive up standards. The Care Commission officers have all gained a new academic qualification which puts them at the forefront of modern regulation for nurseries, care homes and other care services.

Patients are dying and there have been suicides among overstressed staff as a result of NHS rationalisation, a leading consultant in Lanarkshire claimed yesterday. Dr Martin Watt of Monklands Hospital, who was speaking at an event organised by Scottish Voice NHSFirst, said of the downgrading of the A&E:

Doctors have demanded that targets for dealing with obesity – which earn them cash – should be cut from their contract. GPs from across Scotland agreed yesterday that “lifestyle issues such as obesity” should be excluded from their incentive pay scheme because they can do nothing about it.