Young People

Fortunately most young people don’t have a problem with alcohol or drugs.

However it’s important that all young people and their parents/carers can get clear and up to date information about substances, and where to seek advice, should they need it.

Some young people will not achieve good outcomes in their lives unless they get timely and effective help with their drug or alcohol use. A specialist alcohol and drug service is needed for these young people.

In Leicester we are developing services that fit  a ‘pyramid of need’. This is sometimes called a ’tiered system’.

Firstly there are ’universal’ services that all young people should receive- such as drug and alcohol education at school.

Secondly there are services that are aimed at young people thought to be most at risk of alcohol/drug problems; this will include the use of screening tools to identify problems at the earliest possible stage and help the young person to get the support they may need.

Finally there are specialist and more intensive services for young people with drug and alcohol problems. These are called ‘treatment’ services. Treatment is structured support for young people with the most complex substance use needs whose day to day life is seriously affected by their use of alcohol or drugs.