Scheme tackling substance abuse must be extended across Northern Ireland

Alliance Party Health Spokesperson Kieran McCarthy MLA has welcomed the extension of a scheme to combat alcohol and drug abuse amongst children, but he called for the initiative to be rolled out across all of Northern Ireland. It was announced today that Lifematters programme, which currently runs in Lisburn, is to be extended across the Eastern Health Board area.

Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “This scheme has proved a success in Lisburn and instead of it simply being extended across the Eastern Health Board it must be opened up to the whole of Northern Ireland.

“Every possible effort must be made to prevent children getting caught up in drug and alcohol consumption and I believe that this initiative can play a vital role in doing so.

“We hear so many horror stories about children getting involved in drug and alcohol abuse and this scheme has proven to be success, with 85% of young people involved in the programme having no further contact with the criminal justice system.

“Improving the lives of our young people must be a priority and this scheme can help give people the best chance in life.”

ENDS