Women with children and sex workers who misuse drugs lack access to appropriate services, Home Office minister Caroline Flint said today, writes Maria Ahmed.

Speaking at the National Treatment Agency annual conference in London, Flint said that while 90 per cent of women involved in prostitution were Class A drug users, they experienced poor access to services.

She called for more fast track referral schemes for sex workers who would normally be arrested instead of getting access to treatment.

Flint also said women who misused drugs should be given more support with looking after their children while going through treatment.

The minister also highlighted the need for more early intervention for young people at risk of drug misuse including children with parents who misuse drugs, looked after children and young offenders as part of the national drug strategy.