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Story perspectives

UK Child Addiction Cases Surge Amidst Care Shortages

1/13/2026

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Story summary
  • The number of children in the UK drug and alcohol treatment rose to 16,000 last year.
  • More than half of those treated were 15 or younger.
  • Anita Morris, whose son Olly died from addiction, criticizes the system for inadequate support.
  • Experts cite a shortage of state-funded residential facilities and disparities in care.
  • The government plans £3.4 billion for treatment and recovery over three years.