The recreational use of drugs by young people cuts across all social boundaries. Young people from middle class backgrounds are as likely to use as those from working class backgrounds. There is no clear evidence to suggest any difference between local and national trends which identify that for many young people, illegal drug use is not part of their way of life. However, for some young people drug use is a relatively controlled, recreational activity and many would not perceive themselves as having a "drug problem" but see their drug use as an integral (and enjoyable) part of their social life. It is true that most drug users do not come to serious harm. However, there is a small but increasing minority who will experience problems. It is therefore important to recognise and acknowledge the difference between those who experiment with drug use, recreational users and those who are drug users.

As part of its prevention and education remit, the LEA in partnership with the Drug Action Team has developed guidance to assist schools:

· Have a planned programme of drug education across all key stages

· Have a clear policy in support of this programme

· Inform all staff of the policy and provide training, where necessary to facilitate its implementation

· Encourage the support and partnership of parents and the wider community

· Engage in a multi agency collaborative approach to substance misuse education

Through effective drug education programmes, schools can help young people to understand the risks of substance misuse and gain the knowledge and skills to resist taking or experimenting with legal and illegal substances.

In order to provide a " seamless" service to young people YADAS (Young Adults Drug and Alcohol Service) has been established. This is a multi agency service supported by Education, Social Services, the Youth Offending Team, Dorset NHS Health Care Trust and the Bournemouth and Poole Drug Action Teams. The Service will provide information and advice on the physical, psychological and social effects of drug and alcohol use with the aim of preventing drug misuse among all young people in Poole and Bournemouth.