WEST Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion and partners across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are coming together to tackle the impact drugs have on the communities.
The PCC will be taking up the role of Senior Responsible officer for the two counties’ Combating Drugs Partnership as part of the Government’s ‘From Harm to Hope’ ten-year substance misuse plan.
The proposal outlines three major requirements for areas – Breaking drug supply chains, delivering a world-class treatment and recovery system, and achieving a generational shift in the demand for drugs.
Mr Campion will work alongside NHS partners, West Mercia Police, Herefordshire County Council, Worcestershire County Council and probation services.
Additional funding totalling £100,000 has been allocated to support the work and combat the growing harm drugs are causing.
Mr Campion said: “It’s testament to the commitment of the partners, in the two counties, who are willing to come together to maximise the benefits of the Government’s Drugs Strategy.”
Chief Constable Pippa Mills added: “We will always be committed to tackling serious crimes with a view to bring justice to those who cause the harm, and provide support to individuals more vulnerable to exploitation.
“This partnership is an excellent opportunity for us to work alongside like-minded and dedicated professionals to keep people safe, and provide a high-quality service that the communities of West Mercia would expect.”
Sarah Chand, the West Midlands Probation Regional Director, said: “We are delighted to be formalising and developing our work with partners on substance misuse in this new drugs partnership.
“Tackling the causes and consequences of substance misuse is crucial for bother protection of the public and the rehabilitation of the individual.”
The scheme is designed to support all residents and help them lead happy and safe lives by raising awareness of the issues that drugs can cause.
