The issue of crystalline methamphetamine – ice – is real for south west Sydney as a planned forum tomorrow will show.
That’s why the local community, health experts and government are coming together and looking at the problem from a different angle.
New data shows that in NSW between 2009-10 and 2013-14, the number of methamphetamine related hospitalisations increased from 534 to 2,616.
In response to the problem, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) and the NSW Government are working with Community Drug Action Teams (CDATs) across the state to roll out a series of Breaking the Ice forums.
An ice forum will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, July 26, for the south west community.
ADF NSW Community Programs Manager Nikki Woolley said local leaders and experts in drug prevention and harm reduction will be on hand to help you understand the issues and misconceptions surrounding ice.
“This forum will provide you with evidence based information about ice and where to seek help, support and treatment in your area,’’ Ms Woolley said.
“The solution lies in the community’s hands and we will give you some practical tools to deal with the issue.
“More importantly, we need to start seeing the person rather than just the drug and to encourage people to seek help early, rather than hide the problem.”
♦ The forum aims to ensure the community:
• Is informed about crystalline methamphetamine,
• See the person, not just the drug — this relates to breaking down stigma and promoting connectedness and social inclusion in communities
• Understand we’re all in this together – communities can work together to prevent harms through drug use
Ms Woolley said now was the time for change.
“Police, government and many communities across NSW are all saying the same thing – we can no longer arrest our way out of the problem,” Ms Woolley said.
“This is a community problem which has a community solution. So come along and be informed about ice and see how you can help reduce its use in your community.”
FORUM SNAPSHOT
WHEN: Tuesday 26 July, 2016, 6pm for a 6:30pm start.
WHERE: Liverpool Catholic Club, 424 – 458 Hoxton Park Road, Prestons (refreshments will be provided)
REGISTRATION: Click here.
ENQUIRIES: For more information on the forums visit the breaking the ice website here.
