Drugs information evening for parents

The event is being organised by Closing the Gap in association with Banbridge District Council and will run from 6.45-9.30pm.

The event aims to educate parents and carers about drug and alcohol misuse, signs and symptoms, information on aerosols and lighters which have the potential to be misused, advice on how to talk to young people and local services to access for support.

Advice will also be available on how legislation regarding Disclosure of Criminal Record affects young people and their future.

REACT will be attending, providing parents and community members with basic drug and alcohol awareness to educate and inform you of what the main issues are locally and the peer pressure young people face to-day. This event will allow you to have your say about what you would like to see happening in your community.

It is hoped that by educating yourself as a parent you will gain confidence to talk to your young person about drugs and alcohol. By increasing the protective factors in your young person’s life you will directly reduce the likelihood of alcohol and drug related harm.

A spokesperson said, "We strongly encourage all parents and individuals who have contact with young people and have some degree of concern about the dangers and risks associated with alcohol and drugs to attend.

"The participation and support of everyone in the community is requested in order to tackle these issues effectively."

Free information packs will be available, containing guides for parents on alcohol and drugs and related items which help prevent drinks from being spiked.

Registration will commence at 6.30pm when tea and coffee will be available. A finger buffet will be served at an interval in the evening. To book your place contact Alex McMeekin on 028 4066 0606 or email [email protected].

This event has been funded by the Pubic Health Agency through the Southern Drugs and Alcohol Co-Ordination Team (SDACT) Small Grants Scheme 2010.