A statistical bulletin produced by The Information Centre for health and social care found 11 per cent of more than 9,000 pupils in 305 secondary schools used drugs in 2005 compared with 19 per cent the previous year.
The report found that the number of secondary pupils offered drugs in the previous month rose from 36 per cent in 2004 to 39 per cent in 2005, with older pupils more likely to be offered drugs. Cannabis was the most common drug offered, followed by volatile substances.
For 11- and 12-year-olds, volatile substance abuse is common, but from the age of 13 cannabis takes over. Malcolm Davis, marketing manager for Re-Solv, a volatile substances charity, said: "We've heard reports of deaths of an 11-year-old, a 12-year-old and a 14-year-old."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
