Sir Mike Penning MP gained first-hand insights into the work carried out by alcohol and drug services during a visit to a detox and rehabilitation unit last month.
During the visit to Oxygen Recovery, a residential rehabilitation service run by Druglink, Sir Mike Penning MP learned about Oxygen Recovery and discussed what can be done to help minimise the chance of addiction and what other treatment services could help people in need of support.
Residents told him how they felt it was important to educate people, especially from a young age, about the side effects of alcohol and other drugs. They said young people need to understand how substances affect not only them but their family, friends and everyone around them.
Druglink run educational workshops in secondary schools and colleges, delivering the knowledge to help people make sensible decisions. Better labelling of alcohol products was also discussed as another way to increase consumer awareness and knowledge.
Sir Mike Penning MP said: “It was great to visit Oxygen Recovery today and see the work the team at Druglink are doing to help people with their recovery from addiction. Education plays a key role and we need to make sure that students and young adults are aware of the dangers of alcohol and other drugs. I am looking forward to working with Druglink to help spread awareness.”
Derek Heath, joint Chief Executive Officer of Druglink, said: “We’re delighted that Sir Mike Penning came to visit Druglink today. We try to offer as much treatment, support and guidance as possible to those with substance-misuse issues, but we’re a small charity with limited resources.
“Today’s visit from Mr Penning has helped us build awareness of all the work that is being carried out in this sector, and enables us to discuss what more can be done to help those who need us and work towards harm reduction.”
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