03.12.10
Fewer teenagers seek help for misuse of Class A drugs
Demand amongst young people for help with problems caused by primary use of Class A drugs has fallen significantly over the last five years, according to new figures released today by the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse.
Overall, the numbers of under-18s receiving help, has stabilized. This is down to fast and effective interventions being widely available together with ongoing support from related young people's services like youth offending teams, schools, teenage pregnancy, local authorities and charities.
The agency also reports that the number of under-18s completing treatment successfully has more than doubled in five years.
NTA Chief Executive Paul Hayes said: "We had already identified a generational shift amongst young adults (18-24) who are turning away from Class A drugs. Now we learn that the same thing is happening amongst teenagers, too.
"Most young people turning to drug treatment for help have problems associated with cannabis and alcohol. Heavy use can lead to exclusion from school, family breakdown and crime. For those teenagers who seek help, substance misuse is usually one of a range of problems causing difficulties in their life which is why treatment services must work with partners in youth services to offer a range of support."
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]