Daily roundup 26 October: Tax credits, child obesity, and young carers

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has said that Chancellor George Osborne is in "listening mode" over tax credit cuts. The Guardian reports that Morgan indicated on the Andrew Marr show over the weekend that the Chancellor may take steps to mitigate the effects of the proposed cuts on families.


Children should have their weight checked at school on an annual basis in a bid to tackle obesity, the National Obesity Forum has said. The Telegraph reports school pupils have a weigh-in at the beginning and end of primary school, but the forum has called for annual weigh-ins, and at least six checks during a baby’s first year.


A new guide has been launched to help develop an awareness of the needs of young carers among mental health professionals. The Carers Trust said the guidance offers professionals tips on how they can support carers aged 25 and under. 


Resources to teach children about the risks of drinking have been launched by an alcohol education charity. The education packs, developed by Drinkaware alongside teachers, are aimed at nine- to 14-year-olds. They involve discussions, role plays and everyday scenarios to teach children about the harmful effects of alcohol.


Plans to cut the legal aid budget in Northern Ireland could put children at risk, solicitors have warned. The Belfast Telegraph reports that the Law Society has warned that cutting the budget from £100m a year to £65m could impact on access to justice.


Complaints about Dorset children's social care rose by almost 79 per cent last year. The Dorset Echo reported that more than half of these complaints were found to be unjustified, or didn't require further action.