Pubdate: Sat, 15 Apr 2006
Source: Delta Optimist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 Lower Mainland Publishing Group Inc
Contact:  http://www.delta-optimist.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1265
Author: Maureen Gulyas
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

DELTASSIST GETS SUPPORT FOR DRUG USE STUDY IN SCHOOLS

Delta council and the Delta police board have endorsed a plan by 
Deltassist to conduct a review of drug use, in particular crystal 
methamphetamine, in Delta schools.

Julie Chadwick of Deltassist's youth substance use committee said 
crystal meth is not a major problem in Delta yet.

"We'd like it to remain that way," Chadwick told councillors during a 
presentation last week.

Of the 200 youths who have used Deltassist services, only four have 
been addicted to crystal meth.

Chadwick, however, said there is no baseline data available to 
develop a clear understanding of the scope and type of substance 
abuse in Delta, including that of crystal meth. Such information 
would help Deltassist to develop an efficient and effective 
community-wide response to meth and other substance use in 
co-ordination with the Fraser Health Authority, she said.Chadwick 
said the drug is highly addictive and can be attractive to youths as 
an appetite suppressant. The drug is also cheap.

"We wouldn't want it to become a problem. We want to be as proactive 
as we can be," Chadwick said.

To undertake the study, Deltassist needs to apply for a grant from 
the Union of B.C. Municipalities Community Methamphetamine Response 
Funds program.

While the program specifies methamphetamine use, the Delta study will 
cover all substances.

Chadwick said Deltassist is getting help developing the study from 
Kwantlen University College. Research will likely involve about 500 
students and include a survey of Delta secondary schools co-ordinated 
by Kwantlen's Franco Marino.

The next portion will include anecdotal information conducted through 
focus groups with youths already in treatment, youths in alternate 
schools and on probation, and youths in the general school population.

"I'll be very interested to see how these numbers roll out," said 
Coun. Scott Hamilton, the parent of a teenaged daughter in North Delta.

Coun. Jeannie Kanakos said she supports the survey.

"It looks like a great project and a logical next step," she said, 
referring to the well-attended Delta police-hosted meth forums a few 
months ago.

Deltassist also has the support of the Delta school board.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom