Energy companies have been told that their social tariffs for their poorest customers must match the cheapest deals on offer.

The energy regulator Ofgem has laid down new rules in the wake of concern that vulnerable or poor customers are not being given the best offers.

Public Health Minister Shona Robison today visited a community which has trialled an over-21s off-sales alcohol policy - and seen a fall in anti-social crime.

Police and retailers in Cupar, Fife, decided action was needed to combat anti-social behaviour and underage drinking.

Six months ago, Chris McGuire would have thought nothing of having a bath instead of a shower and filling the kettle up to the top.

But now a few simple lifestyle changes, such as measuring out small quantities of water for a cup of tea and swapping baths for showers, have led her family to cut their use of gas and electricity by 47 per cent.

The McGuires live in Colinton Mains Green, Edinburgh – a street that is leading the way across Scotland in slashing use of energy and cutting damaging carbon dioxide emissions. 

New Girlguiding UK and Mental Health Foundation research shows pressures of premature sexualization, materialism and boredom are taking a toll on the mental health and emotional wellbeing of girls and young women.

The report, A Generation Under Stress has been published today in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation.