18 June 2007

Health facilities in the Hunter are raising awareness of drug use in the community this week, with parents and teenagers invited to take part in a number of activities and displays organised for Drug Action Week®.

“Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services staff from right across Hunter New England Health are taking this opportunity to inform the community, answer questions and raise the profile of the importance of drug and alcohol issues, harmful use and the potential to harm our health,” Clinical Nurse Consultant for Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services Dale Allen said.

“A number of our facilities will feature information stalls on topics including the effects of harmful use and dependence on alcohol and tobacco, as well as the use of methamphetamine such as Ice,” Ms Allen said.

“We’re inviting parents of teenagers to come along and talk with our staff to inform themselves about these important issues.”

Drug Action Week® is an initiative of the Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia (ADCA) and is a national week of activities to raise awareness about alcohol and other drug issues and to promote the achievements of those who work to reduce drug related harm. For more information, visit http://www.drugactionweek.org.au

Hunter New England Health Drug Action Week activities:

Tuesday 19 June at Belmont Hospital: Staff from Lakeview Detoxification Service and the Harm Minimisation Team will host an information stall at Belmont Hospital, providing information and answering questions on harmful effects and dependence on alcohol, tobacco and methamphetamine. There will also be a guessing competition for the community with prizes. A free barbecue and mocktails for Belmont Hospital staff in the hospital cafeteria will be available from midday.

Tuesday 19 June at Belmont Library: Jenny Kiley from Lakeview Detoxification Service will conduct a free talk and discussion at Belmont Library from 5.30pm. Community members are invited to attend.

Thursday 21 June at Toronto Library: Jenny Kiley from Lakeview Detoxification Service will conduct a free talk and discussion at Toronto Library at 5.30pm. Members of the community are invited to attend.

Thursday 21 June at Cessnock Community Health Centre: An information session will be held at The Cessnock Pharmacotherapy Unit, with particular discussion about methamphetamine (Ice) use.

Media Inquiries: Shannon Ramadge – 4921 4924 (Ref: HNE-970)

Contact: Shannon Ramadge

Phone: 0408 667299