National News: Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards - National winners
Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards - National winners
The two overall winners in this year's Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards were announced by Home Office Minister Alan Campbell today.
The Awards, now in their fourth year, recognise and celebrate the unsung heroes who go over and above the call of duty to tackle drug use and drug related crime in communities across the country.
Stephen Holme, from Derbyshire, was named Drug Worker of the Year for dedicating more than 30 years of his career in the police force to tackling drugs. He currently manages the Derbyshire Drug Market Project, which he set up in 2001 to investigate and tackle the different drug markets in the county. He was also instrumental in the set up of Lauren's Link, a charity which supports families affected by substance misuse.
The New Horizon Youth Centre Women's Open Space Programme was named Drug Team of the Year for its work helping vulnerable women. This outreach programme helps young people sleeping rough, female sex workers and other vulnerable women of all ages affected by substance misuse around the Kings Cross area. The programme works to reduce risk taking behaviour, increase awareness of personal safety and empower female sex workers to break the cycle of sex, drugs and violence.
Home Office Minister Alan Campbell said:
"I want to congratulate both the winners for their hard work and dedication. These awards show just how many hard working volunteers and professionals work tirelessly within our communities to help individuals overcome drug addiction, support those affected by it and reduce the harm it can cause to our society.
"Latest statistics show that overall drug use remains historically low, demonstrating that our efforts to tackle drugs and get them off our streets are delivering results. However we are not complacent, we continue to focus our efforts on reducing the harm caused by illegal drugs through enforcement, education and treatment."
The two overall winners were chosen from 28 category winners and will both receive £10,000 for their organisation to spend on tackling drug use.
Posted Wednesday December 9th 2009
By Home Office