Hard hitting messages strengthen drugs campaign

Today the Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland launched a new range of posters for pubs and nightclubs to strengthen its ongoing work targeting 18 to 30 year olds about the dangers associated with drugs.

Recent research indicates that more than one in three in this age group has tried drugs with almost one quarter being current users. Rob Phipps, Senior Manager at the Health Promotion Agency explained:
"With this type of advertising we are bringing the message about the dangers of taking drugs right into the territory of clubbers and party goers. These posters are designed to be eye-catching and thought provoking. They aim to speak to young people in direct, clear terms and encourage them to consider the potential effects of drug taking on their lives."

These new ads, which have been pre-tested with 18-30 year olds, focus on the effects of drugs like speed and cocaine, the dangers of taking drugs and then driving and the fact it is impossible to be sure of the quantities of some substances being taken.

The new wave of posters also highlights the risk of dehydration when taking drugs as well as the toxic effects of mixing drugs with alcohol. The need to raise awareness about the possibility of drink spiking is addressed by urging male and female revellers: ‘never leave your drink unattended’.

A survey showed that 95% of pub and club owners involved with an earlier phase of the campaign held a very positive view of it and felt they had a responsibility to display advertising that promoted an enjoyable but safe night out. As Rob Phipps continued:
"This is extremely encouraging because we cannot successfully tackle this problem without collaboration from venue owners. We really welcome and commend their positive support on this issue."

The new posters will be visible in pubs and clubs throughout Northern Ireland from next week. All posters in the series promote the National Drugs Helpline: 0800 776600.

END

Notes to editor:

1. This initiative is part of the Northern Ireland Drugs Campaign and will support the work of the four Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams (DACTs) with local Councils and licensed premises.

2. The posters will be on display in the toilet areas of a range of targeted pubs and clubs throughout Northern Ireland, for example, on the reverse side of toilet cubicle doors.