Tackling drugs misuse among minority groups has been recently highlighted in Kirklees. Local and national experts have discussed new findings from research projects conducted locally. Experts have also looked at how drugs affect ethnic minority communities, and how best to support users and their families.

“Substance misuse affects all communities. But among Asian families, it’s a huge taboo. They have been under represented in drugs service compared to other groups,” said Pete Hoey, of Kirklees Drug Action Team. “They fear the consequences of admitting to substance misuse. For example, if someone has a heroin problem and they need to visit the chemist for treatment, they can be concerned about being ‘found out’. “

Research, funded by the Department of Health and the University of Central Lancashire, over nine months between 2004/05, was carried out by three local organisations, including IMWS and PKWA.

Making Things Equal, a project run by Lifeline Kirklees, which helps minority communities to access treatment and supports their families, delivers training where there are knowledge gaps.

“There’s still a way to go but agencies in Kirklees have already begun to break down barriers by responding to the different needs of all communities,” added Mr Hoey. “The assumption has often been these communities are hard to reach. But we’ve turned that view on its head by identifying and planning services around their needs. The findings from this research will help us continue to do so and reflect our desire to improve drugs services for all communities in Kirklees, which is resulting in more people accessing support and treatment.”

Lifeline Kirklees runs a free and confidential 24-hour telephone advice service for substance misusers and their families. The number is 01484 353333.