Midlands' drugs initiative launched

An anti-drug drive initiative to increase awareness of the penalties for driving under the influence of illegal drugs was launched last week across the East Midlands.

The campaign is the work of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Police and the Community Safety and Drug and Crime partnerships from Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire.

In pre-campaign research, 71% of respondents had little or no idea of the penalties for drug driving.

The campaign comprises radio advertising using case studies, and posters in pub and club washrooms, leisure centres, libraries and other places young people may visit.

John Stamp, from the Derbyshire Drug Action Team, said: "We need people to take this issue seriously. Drugs affect the way you think and behave and can have a significant effect on your sense of judgement and reaction times.

"We all know that drink and driving don't mix - we now need to get across the same message about drugs."

For further information contact Steve Youdell, Nottingham Crime and Drugs Partnership, on 0115 915 6373