Discussion -  topics raised by the presentations made:

Q:  It can be confusing knowing the best place to go for advice in helping someone with drug or alcohol problems – any advice?

A: It all depends on who you’re trying to help. 
To help adults you could:

• drop in to the Stepping Stone on Wednesday and Thursday mornings or refer people there
• drop in or refer people to the Wellspring which is open daily

To help children and young people, you could:

• contact MOSAIC and refer children to them

MOSAIC offers services in most high schools but they also have a ‘transition course’ for Year 6 teachers (the top year of primary schools) to look at drug and alcohol issues – MOSAIC have trained staff in 60 primary schools to spot children are struggling and they offer help for teachers to be able to respond.

Licensing

Q: How-come there are so many pubs and clubs in certain areas – Hazel Grove for instance?
A:  It is very difficult for local Councils to oppose planning applications from pubs and clubs.  However a new licensing bill is going through parliament giving more power to the public and the NHS to voice an opinion.  More information is at the website at www.ourlife.org.uk

Q: Should some of our many pubs be closed down?
A:  That’s a difficult question.  Would it be more effective to limit supermarkets on their sale of cheap alcohol, given that people buying alcohol from supermarkets tend to drink alone and those going to pubs tend to meet friends and drink socially? – which is the most risky behaviour?

Q:  What can you do if a restaurant won’t give free tap water?
A:  Report them to the local Council as they are contravening their licence by refusing to supply free tap water