THERE will no doubt be strength in numbers when the police, health professionals, drug and alcohol counsellors, lawyers, family counsellors and Aboriginal health workers all join forces in the fight against the drug ice. Their message is clear and education is the key.
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“The local community is rightly concerned about this addictive drug and our information sessions are designed to help families and friends of people affected, educate the community and inform professionals working in the field,” Manning Valley Neighbourhood Centre’s Jane O’Dwyer said.
As the regional coordinator for the local legal services, Ms O’Dwyer organised the forums after it became evident it was an emerging issue across the state and regionally.
She said as soon as word got out amongst the community services ‘they jumped on board’ as many of them had been thinking of hosting their own event.
“Our separate session for community workers was originally for 50 people but had to be extended to 100 and even now there is a large waiting list with workers from as far as Kempsey wanting to attend. The demand has been huge.”
The series of community information sessions organised through the Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services around Forster and Taree will focus on the prevalence and impacts of the crystal methamphetamine.
“But the main aim is for people to know where to refer people for help,” she said.
“Ice is having a devastating impact on the local community. People have died because of ice. Many more have experienced significant problems with their physical and mental health. The behaviours have changed, family relationships are suffering and violent crime has risen.”
Residents are invited to attend the following sessions: Forster, August 5 - 10.30 to 12.30pm at Tobwabba Aboriginal Medical Service; 2 to 4pm at Club Forster. Taree, August 20 - 10.30 to 12.30pm at Bushland Multipurpose Centre; 2 to 4pm at Manning Uniting Church.