Shock campaigns, such as the "Just Say No" approach, have no effect in convincing young people to avoid drugs, the ISPCC has said.
Speaking yesterday at the announcement of a national programme to combat drug abuse and early school leaving among young people, the Director of the ISPCC, Mr Paul Gilligan, said 53 per cent of people under 25 had tried an illegal drug. "And 89 per cent drink alcohol."
Quoting a school principal in Dublin, he said alcohol and drugs was "the biggest single issue facing secondary schools", with "Monday morning hangovers" an increasing problem and students frequently having to be sent home due to the after effects of drink and drugs.
The new campaign is based on an assessment carried out by the Children's Research Centre in Trinity College into a six-month pilot programme.
The research "found that the traditional 'Say No To Drugs' message was no longer effective and that effective drugs prevention needed an integrated approach involving young people, their parents and the local community".
A three-pronged approach to tackling early school leaving due to drug abuse is taken in the programme.
The Natural High campaign will target children deemed at risk of abusing drugs or alcohol, with a 'mentor', who will work with the young person over a six month period, helping them achieve goals and take part in activities chosen by them. The campaign also aims to identify for the young person alternatives to drugs and alcohol for confidence or to let off steam.
Targeted individual programmes will be aimed at children deemed "at acute risk" or already abusing drugs.
Anyone interested in volunteering to become a 'mentor' on the programme, and to work with a young person over six months, should contact the ISPCC on (01) 679 4944
