CYP Now - Analysis: Substance misuse - Families at centre of drugs strategy

The government's new 10-year strategy for combating drug use sets out a series of ambitious changes to services for families and young people. But, as Tristan Donovan finds out, putting these proposals into practice presents a number of challenges.

"The government's ambition is clear," Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said as she unveiled Labour's second 10-year drug strategy last week.

Fewer people starting to use drugs. Better treatment services for drug addicts. Support for drug-using parents. More information for parents worried their children will use drugs. And more joined-up support for young drug users. The strategy and its action plan are packed with bold aspirations and schemes.

Family-friendly services

There are numerous plans to deal with drug use by parents and family members. Parents whose children could be likely to take drugs will be sent information. Drug treatment services are to become more family-friendly through changes to opening hours and a greater emphasis on involving families in decisions. Drug- addicted parents will be prioritised for treatment.

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