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Young child denied compensation for mother's excessive pregnant drinking

A young child whose mother drank excessively while pregnant is not entitled to criminal injuries compensation, the Court of Appeal has ruled.

Judges said the mother - who drank a half-bottle of vodka and eight cans of strong lager a day while pregnant - was not guilty of a criminal offence under British law.

A council in North West England had fought for compensation on behalf of the child, now aged seven, who suffers with learning, development, memory and behaviour problems.

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Judgement for mum who 'drank heavily' while pregnant

Judges are expected to hand down their verdict in a landmark case in which a council are seeking compensation from the mother of a child with foetal alcohol syndrome.

The mother in question was a teenager while pregnant, it has emerged. Credit: PA

The council, believed to be in the North West of England, say the mother drank enormous amounts of alcohol while pregnant which is tantamount to a crime of violence.

The Court of Appeal is expected to rule in the case later today after the council lost its initial bid for compensation back in January.

The council want compensation for the little girl, known as "Child CP" under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme

The mum, who was 17-years-old when pregnant, allegedly consumed half a bottle of vodka and eight cans of strong lager a day - between 40-57 units.

However, charities the British Pregnancy Advisory Service and Birthrights, claim criminalising women who drink while pregnant is not the best way to help them or their children.

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Young child denied compensation for mother's excessive pregnant drinking

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