Drugs in Shipston?

At its inception DASH (Drug Action Shipston) was created as a response to the community's concern about the drug problem in Shipston at the time.  More than a decade down the line DASH's main focus has been much more about providing education about alcohol and drugs and supporting youth work in the town, with the knowledge that education and support prevents young people misusing alcohol and drugs.  

DASH has good relationships with organisations working in the local area, such as the police, the Medical Centre and the local schools.  The Charity regularly funds 'Prison me? No Way!' At the High School, which is a powerful education day taking pupils through the consequences of drug use and crime, right through the criminal justice system and into a prison cell.  Year after year of pupils’ feedback says what an excellent day this is.  Additionally, DASH funds counselling at the High School and in the local area to support teenagers during times of difficulty.  Alongside these larger activities DASH works to provide education about drugs and safe alcohol consumption for children and parents alike.  A recent purchase has been a 'drugs box' to show what drugs look like and to provide education on the effects they can have.

Over the last few months, DASH has worked with Reziliant Ltd. to undertake some targeted youth work in Shipston researching young people's views on drugs.  88% of those surveyed felt that drug usage amongst young people in Shipston was on the increase, with 60% believing there was an issue with drugs in the area.  Worryingly, those surveyed identified cannabis, cocaine, heroin, speed, alcohol, ketamine, ecstasy and M-Cat as being used by young people in the area.  68% of the young people responding to the questionnaire felt they would like more information about drugs.

 

DASH will continue to provide education and support, but needs help.  If you are interested in helping fund-raise or would like to get involved with the charity's committee please contact Rachel Vial, Practice Manager at the Medical Centre, on 01608 661845 or email her through the 'contact us' pages on the Medical Centre website at http://shipstonmc.warwickshire.nhs.uk/Home 

 

http://www.talktofrank.com/ is a great resource for information about Drugs, or if you are aware of illegal activities relating to drugs contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111