On May 10th, seven community drug action teams (CDATs) from across south west NSW came together to discuss drug use in the region, collaborate and share initiatives.
CDATs are made up of passionate and dedicated volunteers who love their local area and want the best for their community.
Since 1999, CDATs have led thousands of activities to engage at-risk youth, educate parents and the wider community through community activities and campaigns to curb alcohol-fuelled violence and drug use. NSW Health funds the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) to support the CDATs through the Community Engagement and Action Program (CEAP).
Community-based solutions play an important role in the prevention of alcohol-related harm. Within their local community, CDATs work to increase awareness of alcohol and other drugs (AOD) related harms, promote the uptake of protective strategies aimed at reducing harm, and contribute to the prevention and misuse of AOD through appropriate local community activities and initiatives.
The South West NSW CDAT Forum included a presentation from AOD consultant trainer and facilitator Annie Bleeker, who provided an overview of drugs in Australia as well as highlighting major drugs of concern.
Jenny Atkinson spoke from Calvary Drug and Alcohol Service and Senior Sergeant Ross Jackson from Wagga Police spoke to the CDATs about local issues. Amanda Kelly, Damian Dabrowski and John Dean from the ADF discussed best practice, other CDAT projects in NSW and how to develop a Community Drug Action Plan.
The forum also generated some local media interest, watch the
Prime 7 News interview with Annie and Amanda.
The day’s events concluded with the following quote provided by the ADF:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead
Are you interested in joining your local CDAT team?
Get involved today.
To learn about some of the most commonly used drugs affecting Australians right now, check out the
A-Z of Drugs.
