The Nigel Local Drug Action Committee (ldac) held a substance abuse awareness day last Friday, at the Multipurpose Centre in Duduza.
The organisation is made up of different stake holders, amongst them the Metro Police, SAPS, Department of Basic Education, Department of Social Development, Department of Health, Sanca and youth-based organisations.
Community members and school children from Duduza filled the hall, to hear what the speakers had to say.
The event is part of the national drug master plan 2013-2017, which is being implemented by the Central Drug Authority (CDA).
The CDA places emphasis on the following pillars: prevention, early intervention, treatment, after care and reintegration.
Thulane Makgabutlane is the secretary of ldac, he said the day was aimed at educating the community about the effects of drug and alcohol abuse, as well as referring them to places that can assist.
“The Department of Social Development and Sanca assist addicts with counselling, medical examinations and compiling reports which enable us to place substance abusers in rehab centres,” states Thulane.
He also emphasised that the attitude of the addict influences the pace and process of giving them assistance.
According to Thulane, the two big culprits causing havoc in the community are Nyaope and alcohol abuse.
Those needing help are advised to contact the the social development office on 011 730 8420.
