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Drug Aware is an aspirational standard for schools and their communities, supporting them to address drug and alcohol issues through early intervention. It leads the way in making a real difference. The standard, set out for schools to build on existing work, helps to develop a more effective, evidence-based approach. With the participation of parents and pupils, DrugAware schools will have better, more robust drug and alcohol education, policy and support for vulnerable young people.

Over the last year we have seen 34 secondary and primary schools celebrating these successes. Nottingham City is an Early intervention City - DrugAware is one of a range projects dedicated to improving outcomes for young people in the City.

More on early intervention projects in Nottingham City.

Being a 'DrugAware School' means you are safer, smarter and better prepared to address drug and alcohol issues if they arise and are working together to tackle the harm that drugs and alcohol can present.

Young people

• Know they are part of a prestigious award, already achieved by over 11,000 children in Nottingham City.
• Receive effective, ongoing drug and alcohol education throughout their school life. This will be based on their needs and local data. The focus of drug education is on acknowledging their world and real experiences and developing the skills and understanding to keep them safer in situations where they may encounter substances, from to medicines, caffeine or household products to illegal drugs. Ensuring they understand the risks and consequences of drug and alcohol misuse and are confident to resist and prevent the harms that drugs and alcohol can cause is the key to effective early intervention.
• Where young people are affected by their own or another person's substance misuse, they have access to support, advice and early intervention before issues escalate.
• Are involved in high-profile campaigns, carrying positive messages about drug-free lives to their school community and beyond.
• Celebrate their achievements in becoming 'DrugAware'

Schools

• Have in place a well-planned, relevant and modern drug education curriculum to support young people, including those who are most at risk.
• Intervene early before problems escalate - proactively assessing the needs of vulnerable pupils and ensuring they are referred to specialist services and targeted interventions.
• Can use 'DrugAware' award towards extending their existing Healthy Schools work to become an 'Enhanced Healthy School'.

More on Healthy Schools

Parents and Carers

• Receive specially designed information on drug and alcohol issues, to support and encourage them to talk to their children with more confidence.
• Participate in the development of the drugs policy so they are involved in, understand and support the early intervention approach.

More on parents and carers

Download the standard (PDF file - right-click 'Save As' to download)

Download: DrugAware Information Sheets (.zip 1.4 MB) - A collection of information sheets to set you on your way. They explain the main resources and tools available to you as a DrugAware school, including the D-Vibe Survey, Ngage Assessment Toolkit and an overview for governors of the DrugAware Award and what it means to your school.

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