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WQ.113/2021
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS BY DEPUTY R.J. WARD OF ST. HELIER
QUESTION SUBMITTED ON MONDAY 15th MARCH 2021 ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON MONDAY 22nd MARCH 2021
Question
Following the reported admission of a child to the Hospital further to the use of a non-prescribed street' drug, will the Minister advise what protocols exist for the handling of dangerous narcotics on the local market, and how he will ensure that the wider community is made aware of the danger of such drugs?
Answer
The States of Jersey Police are committed to reducing crime and protecting vulnerable individuals. SoJP recognises the threat and harm that drugs have on the Island and in January 2021 re-introduced a Drugs Squad. The re-establishment of the Drugs Squad will enable more proactive work focussing on those drug related investigations that have a serious impact on our community. The team will also continue to work closely with Jersey Customs and Immigration Service (JCIS) to reduce the availability of drugs within the Island.
SoJP are developing a web page which will offer up to date advice, guidance and advise about any new drugs that have been identified.
SoJP are committed to educating young people about the harm and effects of abusing controlled drugs. Each school has a School Liaison Officer to offer support and guidance on such matters. Prevention, education and diversion is key in breaking the cycle of drug abuse. SoJP will be a key stakeholder in the Drug and Alcohol Awareness Team (DAAT) which will focus on prevention and early intervention, developing recovery systems, support for children & young people and families and public health approach to justice.
SoJP also sit on the Misuse of Drugs Advisory Council (MDAC) offering advice and guidance to the Home Affairs and Health Minister.
In addition to the above, which focuses on the work of Home Affairs services, it should be noted that Health and Community Services (HCS) also provide support and advice within the community via the Drug and Alcohol Service. This includes the provision of advice relating to different drugs and their effects in order to raise awareness of the harms they pose. SoJP work in partnership with colleagues in HCS to support prevention initiatives.
Work is ongoing on the creation of a Drug and Alcohol Strategy for Jersey. This will be a joint piece of work between Public Health, HCS and Justice and Home Affairs (JHA). It will bring a strategic focus to the issue of drug and alcohol misuse informed by innovative, health-based approaches.