ALARM over the growing extent of drug-taking and other substance abuse among young people in a Forest town has prompted the formation of a local "substance action group".
Behind the move is Lydney C of E Primary School teacher and health coordinator Wendy Riach, who has arranged a public drug-awareness meeting at the school next Tuesday, November 2, to address the "crucial" issue.
"We feel this is an important issue for all parents and the community," said Ms Riach.
"It is an area of education we feel is of prime importance, if the future is to be better for our children. We need your support in this matter – please make a special effort to attend."
She said it was alarming that substance abuse was becoming more common. By the age of 16 nearly half of all young people had tried drugs and the average age of first use was becoming younger.
Her concern is backed by local youth and community officer Sheila Brown, based in Gloucester, who was anxious to stress that there was thankfully no evidence of drug abuse in any of the county's primary schools.
Ms Riach said the prevalence of underage drinking was equally alarming, and the growth of alcohol abuse in general which was by no means confined to younger people.
She said the action group was being formed to develop "appropriate interventions". It would aim to raise drug awareness and involve the community, including young people, in possible solutions.
A panel representing the education authority, the police, the schools involvement unit and an independent drugs adviser will present information and answer any questions at the session, which starts at 7pm.
Ms Riach said: "The event is open to everyone with an interest in this issue and it is hoped that it will be a step towards generating a community response to substance misuse."