In this section

• Sheffield Approach
• Information and Education about
  Substances
• Substance Misuse - what
  constitutes a problem?
• Harm Reduction
• Roles and Responsibilities

Information and Education about Substances

We believe that all young people in Sheffield are entitled to information, advice and support about substance use that :

• is accurate, realistic and credible
• is wherever possible based on the evidence rather than myth
• is clear about the illegality of drugs
• is clear that some substances are more dangerous than others, but that all substances carry some risks, including alcohol.
• encourages them to make informed and healthy choices, including choosing not to use substances.
• acknowledges that some of the dangers associated with using substances can be reduced (but not completely eliminated) by changing the ways the substances are used, or the changing the context in which they are used.
• is confidential. In other words if a young person asks for help or advice about substances, this will not automatically mean that their parents, the police or their school are informed.
• Is appropriate to their age and maturity.