Turning Point response to Drug Strategy Consultation
In response to the 2010 Drug Strategy Consultation Paper, released today, Turning Point’s Director of Substance Misuse Services, John Mallalieu said;
“Turning Point welcomes the new consultation and the Government’s proposal to adopt a more holistic approach to drug treatment. In particular, we are pleased to see that the Government recognises the importance of wraparound services so that drug and alcohol treatment and drug and mental health services are better integrated around the needs of the individual.
“We are supportive of any proposals which encourage more people to enter treatment. However, we must be careful that if imposing benefits sanctions, we do not further marginalise hard to reach and vulnerable groups.
"It must also be considered that cutting benefits for those who refuse to seek help will only work if there are appropriate treatment places available. If we are to move more individuals on a path to recovery and make communities safer, the Government may wish to concentrate on ensuring investment for rehabilitation and integration is preserved and ring-fenced.”
-ENDS-
For more information please contact:
Sarah Creighton
Turning Point Press Office
020 7481 7632
www.turning-point.co.uk