Many parents worry about their child becoming involved with drugs. They feel that they don’t know enough about drugs to help prevent their child from coming to harm.
Although there are many stories in the media about drugs leading to addiction, crime and death, it is important to remember that:
- For most people illegal drug taking is not a part of normal life
- Most people who do try drugs do not continue to use them.
Those who try illegal drugs do not usually suffer any long-term harm to their health.
However, there are serious risks associated with drug use:
- The user can never be sure of exactly what they are taking
- What is bought is unlikely to be pure, and the user won’t know what it has been mixed with
- The user can’t be sure what effect a drug will have, even if they have taken it before
- It can be very dangerous to mix different drugs, and this includes taking a drug and drinking alcohol
- If needles, syringes or other injecting equipment are shared there is a serious risk of dangerous infections being spread such as HIV and hepatitis B and C. Injecting can also damage veins.
In addition, unlawful possession of a controlled drug is a criminal offence. A drugs conviction can cause problems obtaining a travel visa to enter some countries.
It can also affect job prospects as an employer may check if an applicant has a criminal record or any past convictions.
The Drugs Advice Centre
If you, or someone you know, has been affected by or has concerns about drugs, you can contact the Drugs Advice Centre for help or advice using the details below:
The Drugs Advice Centre
96 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EA
Telephone: 0116 222 9555
Further information
Your GP can offer you help and could refer you to local drug counselling agencies.
Useful Websites*:
*Leicester City Council is not responsible for the content and services on external websites.
