The Department of Health has confirmed approval for the hiring of 48 new paramedics in Northern Ireland next year.

Tackling social inequalities is vital in reducing the rates of poor mental health in the north, it has been warned.

Northern Ireland’s health department is facing significant budget challenges.

After working to support people with addictions for over 20 years, Alex Bunting from the Inspire service says the drug problem in Belfast has become the worst he has ever seen. 

Father of three Liam Kealey (41) from north Belfast first started taking drugs aged 12 which led to a 20-year battle with cocaine addiction.

Police have made nearly 9,000 drug seizures in Northern Ireland over the past year, and say it reflects a 'worrying demand' for the increasing supply entering the country by land, air and sea.

Health workers on strike at Belfast City Hall on Friday have warned more young people will leave Northern Ireland unless a long-running pay dispute is resolved.

Members of the Royal College of Midwives will be among health workers staging strike action in Northern Ireland this week. 

The Wegovy weight loss drug has been launched in the UK, but the Department of Health has said financial constraints mean it will be 'some time' before it can be rolled out in Northern Ireland.

As Covid figures continue to rise across the UK and Republic, a body representing pharmacies in Northern Ireland say they will be ready in case of any winter surge.

A new minor injury unit will also open at the site next Wednesday.