Drugbusters want to hear from you (From Warrington Guardian)

Drugbusters want to hear from you

A DEDICATED team in Warrington, that aims to tackle drug-related problems in the town, is consulting the public over its future plans.

The Warrington Drug Action Team (DAT) was established in January 2001 and is one of 150 throughout the country charged with implementing the Government's drug strategy.

And now, as similar drug intervention programmes are being introduced in other areas of the north west, it is asking the public to contribute to its work.

Amanda Finch, acting Warrington DAT co-ordinator, said that the team has four main areas that it has to deal with: young people, treatment, reducing supply and communities.

"We are constantly having to deliver against all four of these national aims and, under these priorities, we localise it to Warrington because not every area will need the same things," she said.

A spokesman for Warrington DAT, added: "Drug Action Teams (DATs) bring together representatives of all the local agencies involved in tackling the misuse of drugs, including the primary care trust, local

authority, police, probation, social services, education and youth services, and the voluntary sector.

"DATs work with crime and disorder reduction partner

ships to help the police and communities to tackle local drug problems and associated crime."

The Warrington DAT produces four annual plans and provides an annual return to the Drug Strategy Directorate at the Home Office.

For more information on the work of Warrington DAT and to find out how to have your say visit www.warringtondat.org.uk or call Amanda on 631765.