Safe spaces needed for drug-addicted children, say grieving mums
Summary
The article discusses the need for more support and safe spaces for children addicted to drugs in the UK, as highlighted by mothers who lost their sons to addiction. It reports a rise in the number of young people seeking drug and alcohol treatment and the lack of adequate residential facilities for under-18s. Experts and families are calling for a national strategy to address these gaps.Key Facts
- There is an increase in the number of children seeking drug and alcohol treatment since the pandemic began.
- More than half of the 16,000 children in treatment last year were 15 years old or younger.
- A 13% rise in under-18s seeking support was noted for the year 2024-25.
- There is no state-run residential facility for under-18s in the UK, and private facilities have limited beds.
- Cannabis is the most commonly used substance among young people in treatment.
- The responsibility for drug treatment funding and coordination lies with local councils.
- Mothers of deceased teenagers claim inadequate community care and gaps in treatment options.
- Calls for a consistent national strategy to improve drug treatment services come from experts and affected families.
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