Drug Education News

The Sun covers a recent meeting between David Cameron, leader of the Conservative Party, and a number of young people who have had drug problems. They quote Mr Cameron as saying:

“I have seen speeches from great leaders and presidents but this is by far the most inspiring.”

and:

“It took me six times to quit smoking but your task is infinitely more difficult.”

Mr Cameron, before he became the leader of his party, argued that drug education should involve the direct voice of those who have had problems with drugs. This is something, that current policy argues should be approached very cautiously by schools. The guidance says:

Without sensitive handling they may arouse interest or glamorise drug use or describe experiences which young people may find it hard to relate to. In some instances they may unwittingly imply that their own drug use represents a ‘safe limit’ that can be copied. If they are to be involved, this should be because they are skilled in facilitating pupil learning and not simply by virtue of their status as a former user.