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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Shanti Das

‘Free and impartial’ addiction helplines paid secret commission by rehabs

Which Rehab? was among six brokers that posed as impartial advice services, but failed to make clear they earned a commission.
Which Rehab? was among six brokers that posed as impartial advice services, but failed to make clear they earned a commission. Photograph: Which Rehab?

Helplines that claim to offer “free” and “impartial” addiction support have been reprimanded by the advertising watchdog for hiding the fact they are paid thousands in commission by private rehabilitation clinics.

Amid record drug death rates and high demand for services, one website is promising “free, impartial, expert” advice for those trying to find the best treatment.

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