Welsh Assembly Government launches new substance misuse strategy 2008-2018

Today the Welsh Assembly Government published its new ten year substance misuse strategy. Minister for Social Justice and Local Government, Dr. Brian Gibbons launched the document that places alcohol-related harm at its centre.

'Working Together to Reduce Harm' sets out a collaborative approach to tackling drugs, alcohol and other misused substances. It outlines how the Welsh Assembly Government and partner organisations will work to reduce the damage caused to individuals, their families and society from substance misuse.

The strategy will be financed by an extra £9.6 million in the Substance Misuse Action Fund over the next three years, taking the total amount of funding to over £27 million per annum by 2010-2011. There will also be a further £11 million a year ring-fenced funding provided for local health boards to tackle substance misuse and it was announced that a further £1 million is available this year for residential and in-patient services.

The publication of the strategy follows a three month consultation earlier this year. Speaking at the launch of the strategy at the West Glamorgan Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Swansea, Dr Gibbons said:

"The misuse of drugs, alcohol or other substances is still one of the most devastating ways in which individuals can harm themselves, their families and the communities they live in. This strategy sets out a clear agenda for the next ten years. It is a route map for all agencies in Wales to work together to make a real difference to reduce harm and to improve lives."

The strategy addresses all misused substances, but places particular emphasis on the problems caused by the inappropriate or risky use of alcohol, identified as more widespread in Wales than illicit drug misuse. As part of this focus the Assembly Government will press for stricter rules on alcohol pricing and promotion, an increase in taxation and a reduction in the drink-drive limit.