It is no exaggeration to say that Drugs Ruin Lives…….

Class A, B and C drugs are illegal which means that having them in your possession, using them and/or supplying them all carry penalties under the Law.  This could result in a criminal record which damages your chances of getting a job. 

Buying drugs can result in debt.

Drugs can seriously damage health.  Immediate risks include overdoses – even fit and young people have died from heart attacks after taking drugs (particularly after taking volatile substances such as aerosols, gases and glue).  Longer term risks include liver, kidney and heart problems and mental health issues.

When under the influence of drugs, people sometimes make poor decisions such as driving whilst under the influence, having unprotected sex and getting into arguments or fights.

Go to the Talk To Frank website for more information about drugs and the short and long term implications.

LEGAL HIGHS - click here for more information relating to legal highs.

If you or a friend or relative require advice or assistance, LOCAL services available with contact telephone numbers and/or websites are detailed below:

Essex Police
To report drug or alcohol related crimes and activities, please ring Braintree Police Station
Tel: 101
www.essex.police.uk

IN AN EMERGENCY, ALWAYS RING 999

Open Road
Adults can contact Open Road, a registered charity providing drug & alcohol treatment.  Services include assessments, key working, counselling, acupuncture and Chinese herbs, shiatsu, aromatherapy, homeopathy and aftercare.  They also provide “drop in” and needle exchange facilities.
Tel: 01376 552763
www.openroad.org.uk

Essex Young Peoples Drug & Alcohol Services (EYPDAS)
EYPDAS work with young people up to the age of 19 yrs old who are affected by substance misuse – either their own or ‘significant others’.  Their confidential services include advice, support, assessment and counselling.  Tel: 01245 493311
www.childrenssociety.org.uk

Victim Support Service
Victim Support is the independent charity which helps people cope with crime.  They have a network of local branches covering the whole of England & Wales.  Their trained officers can offer various services including someone to talk to in confidence, information on police & court procedures and assist in dealing with organisations as well as offering links to other sources of help
Tel: 0845 4565995
www.victimsupport.org.uk

Other information regarding Drugs & Alcohol services can be found at the Essex Drugs & Alcohol Action Team website  www.essexdrugaction.org