Crystalline methamphetamine or 'ice' will be the topic of tonights' 'Breaking the Ice' forum in Maitland.
Local community members, health experts and government will be on hand to help attendees understand the issues and misconceptions surrounding 'ice' and give some practical tools to deal with the issue.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare the number of Australians who have used methamphetamine has increased to 1.3 million people. In the regional areas of the Hunter, NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research reveal a 60 per cent increase in reports of amphetamine use and possession. Much larger than the 18 per cent increase in population centres of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.
Alcohol and Drug Foundation NSW Programs Manager Annie Bleeker says, the forum will aim to inform the community about the drug, break the stigma attached to its use and promote social inclusion.
"We need to start seeing the person rather than just the drug and to encourage people to seek help early, rather than hide the problem."
According to Ms Bleeker this is a community problem with a community solution.
"The solution is very much in the community's hands around this issue and that means working effectively with police as well as education and community groups."
The forum will be held tonight at East Maitland Bowling Club at 6:30pm.
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| Pictured: the drug 'ice'. Photo Courtesy of the ABC. |
