Drugs and Alcohol
There is a growing trend in the misuse of drugs, alcohol and solvents in the Borders. We can see the effects on our communities and in the day-to-day lives on individuals, their families and friends. We know that we cannot change this culture overnight however; we can discourage young people from experimenting, reduce the harm caused by misuse and help people stay as safe and healthy as possible. When people are ready to change their behaviour, they need the right support and structures in place to do so.
The Drug & Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) is a multi agency team with representation from Police, Health, Scottish Borders Council and the voluntary sector. The DAAT is responsible for putting into action the Scottish Executives strategy for drugs and alcohol at a local level. The DAAT has 3 subgroups focussing on education and prevention, treatment and support services, and issues relating to the wider communities. To find out what our action plan for the Scottish Borders is click here: Action Plan for Borders DAAT
Work carried out by the community's subgroup includes:
- ·Servewise Training: Training to licensees on the responsible serving of alcohol in their premises
- Parent/Community Awareness Sessions: Increase parents awareness of the drug and alcohol culture within the community and aid communication with their children on related issues
- Student Awareness Sessions: Increase awareness of potential problems associated with drug use and binge drinking
- Scotland's Health at Work (SHAW): Work in partnership to support local businesses in developing drug and alcohol policies.
- Adult advice cards: Promote early identification of potential alcohol problems amongst adults encouraging them to seek support, by developing 'help and advice' cards to be used in A & E/ Community Hospitals for alcohol related admissions.
- Research into local festivals held: To promote family friendly events and reduce harmful effects of alcohol
- Development and implementation of Sharp Policy "Safe Collection and Disposal of discarded Sharps Found In the Community ".
Click on the link to request a parent/community group awareness session : bordersdaat@borders.scot.nhs.uk
To find out more information on DAAT's click here:
For a leaflet on the support and help available for both young people and adults in the Borders contact DAAT: 01896 825566 or mail to: bordersdaat@borders.scot.nhs.uk
For information on individual drugs, getting practical help or someone to talk to confidentially contact: Know the Score 0800 589 5897 or click here:
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