PARENTS face a frightening task bringing up children in today's drug-riddled society. Far from being critical of their efforts I want to sound the rallying cry in this Battle against Evil.

Drugs are a mainstream problem. Recent apathy has allowed drugs to infiltrate at all levels of society. It is time to address and strive to cure this disease which is ruining the lives of so many of our youngsters.

Support and determined resolve are needed in this chemical war. Children face terrible pressure to take drugs. Together parents and their children must look to fight its spread and influence.

Youngsters cannot be bullied, lectured or scared into not taking drugs. They must be educated about the long term effects of drugs and given the courage to say No.

The war will not be won through scare tactics; the propaganda of the users and dealers is far more attractive to children than the ranting of their parents. Children need to be aware of the facts and the dangers. Through listening to our children we, as parents, can equip them with the facts to disseminate the lies surrounding drugs.

For too long now society has either chosen to ignore or has made an ineffective stand against the increasing influence of drugs.

Just one example: The son of a friend was put on probation for a drugs-related crime. Could my friend and his wife talk to his probation officer about his problem and the help he was getting?

Oh dear me no. The client - yes, that's what they call them now in the ultra politically-correct probation service - had to have his privacy protected. And his desperate mum and dad were shown the door. This stupidity has to stop.

Many folk have lost precious sons and daughters while the wicked agents of this disease have been made rich. Very rich.

Parents must be sensitive to signs that their children may be taking drugs. Signs can include: mood swings; unusual irritability or aggression; loss of appetite; loss of interest in hobbies, sport, school or friends; bouts of drowsiness; unexplained loss of money or belongings from the house; unusual marks on the body or unusual smells around the house.

Anyone who has any information which could be used to bust a dealer should call (01254) 353534. Addicts, their families and friends can speak to experts in drug abuse and rehabilitation on a helpline on (01254) 677427. Together we will be victorious.

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