2012-07-19 News
Professionals who work with young people across Ealing attended a roundtable event to discuss the use and effects of cannabis in 21st century Britain and how the sector can best support young people.
Titled 'Just a joint?', the debate examined the impact of cannabis on young people and the attitudes of professionals, looking at the relationship with other drugs and ways in which to reduce harm.
The event was organised by the EASY (Ealing Alcohol and Substance Youth) Project, which is run by the national health and social care charity CRI. The event was chaired by a service user, the Young Adults Link worker, and staff from EASY.
Discussion centred on how seriously cannabis usage should be taken given the nature of varieties available and the ease of obtaining 'skunk', which is modified to be stronger especially when compared to popular varieties of the late 20th century. Attendees also considered the changing perception of the drug over recent decades, and the ways in which this affects both individuals who use it and those who work in public services.
"The attendance was great with a good mix of services present," said Ede Eruero, team leader of the EASY Project. "It's important that all those working with young people understand the different strengths of cannabis and how we can engage with young people together. There's much to follow up on as a result of this first event."
A service user presented his experience to an audience of professionals from services across Ealing organisations including Social Services, Youth Offending Service, Adult Drug Services (Ealing Drug Intervention Project and Ealing DAIS Open Access), Ealing Youth Service, the Leaving Care Team, Children's Commissioning Team, Connexions, Family Outreach, Feltham Prison CARATs and NHS Ealing.
The event was the first in a series that will look at ways to work together and share information to ensure the best provision for young people.
All media enquiries should be directed to:
Telephone: 020 7833 6729
Mobile: 07500 928091
Email: kevin.perlmutter@cri.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7833 6718
Mobile: 07584 041008
Email: seema.khistaria@cri.org.uk
