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How government plans to reduce harms caused by illegal drugs

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Report published following approval of policy principles

The Isle of Man Government has published a plan to try and reduce the harm caused by illegal drugs on the Island.

It includes improving education and awareness, prioritising treatment and support, and making services easier to access.

It is one of two reports which government says set out a 'joined-up, practical approach to reduce harm, keep communities safe and improve support for people and families affected by substance misuse'. 

It follows the approval of policy principles by Tynwald back in May.

Read more HERE.

One report looks at the work already being done by various agencies on the Island, while the other sets out an Action and Implementation Plan which includes 'five main aims' going forward:  

  • reducing drug-related harm 
  • making services easier to access 
  • improving education and awareness 
  • prioritising treatment and support where appropriate, and  
  • improving how information is gathered and used to target support where it's needed most 

A multi-agency group is being set up to oversee this work.

Director of Public Health Dr Matt Tyrer says: ‘Drug-related harm is a complex challenge which affects individuals, families and communities in different ways. 

 ‘The Isle of Man already has a strong foundation of services and initiatives in place. This plan provides a shared roadmap for partners to build on that work, strengthen coordination and ensure that future activity is informed by the best available evidence. 

 ‘A key theme throughout the plan is the importance of understanding local need through robust intelligence, enabling interventions and resources to be targeted where they can have the greatest impact.'

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