Teenagers are being forced into adult psychiatric units because of bed shortages in suitable wards, according to a new report. The study in Scotland found eight out of 10 youths who suffered psychosis for the first time were admitted to adult wards.

Save The Children yesterday called on all MSPs to back their campaign for seasonal cash grants to lift 90,000 Scottish kids out of poverty.  A study by the charity showed that 60 per cent of low-income families would never have enough to live on.

A huge rise in the number of people seeking emergency medical attention has triggered an investigation into why more Scots are turning to the NHS. Frontline health services in Scotland are facing growing pressure at nights and weekends, although levels of serious illness are believed to be the same.

Cosla president Pat Watters has said he was humbled after being honoured for his services to local government. Mr Watters who is also a councillor in South Lanarkshire has been involved in local politics for 35 years.

The number of nursery jobs axed by local councils has been criticised by Scotland’s largest teaching union. In the past year, 120 teaching posts have been cut in nursery schools across the country, the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) said. The union believes having qualified teachers in a nursery setting is the best way to give children a good start.

£2million from the Housing Estate Regeneration Fund (HERF) has been assigned to Aberdeenshire. Managed by Communities Scotland, the Executive’s housing and regeneration agency, the fund supports local authorities’ housing strategies and local regeneration needs.

Doctors have called for a sharp rise in alcohol prices after a report said 28,000 victims of drink-related violence are treated in A&E each year. Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems (SHAAP) also called for a stop to supermarket drinks promotions.

All secondary pupils in Scotland should be given ID cards in an effort to stamp out bullying, according to a teaching union. The Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association (SSTA) says many schools already have card systems in place for school lunches and libraries.

The Scottish government will continue to offer support to Scottish based aid agencies tackling the aftermath of natural disasters throughout the world, International Development Minister Patricia Ferguson said on Boxing Day. The Minister was speaking on the 2nd anniversary of the Asian tsunami.

Help fulfil Shelter Scotland’s Christmas wish to have its 5000th quote by the end of the year – and be in with a chance of winning a free consultation with celebrity designers Colin and Justin. The housing and homelessness charity are searching for the 5000th home is* quote over the festive season, as the campaign nears its climax.