Book Review: Understanding street drugs

UNDERSTANDING STREET DRUGS

By David Emmett and Graeme Nice

Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers
£17.99; ISBN: 1843103516

STAR RATING: 4/5

A  well-written easy to use guide for parents, teachers and other professionals working with young people, its accessibility is aided by being divided into two parts, writes Richard Costello.

Part one of the book provides clear, detailed and jargon free information on the most commonly available drugs in the UK today. Each drug has its own section containing a description of its various forms, availability, legal position, methods of use, effects on the body and the consequences of use. Each section also contains the slang or street names associated with the drug.

Part two explores signs and indications of drug use, covering not only the behaviour of the individual but also the equipment which could warn of potential drug use.

This section of the book also gives advice and guidance on handling and managing drug related incidents and a “how to” guide for developing a substance misuse policy.

If you are a professional working with young people or a concerned parent and you are looking for a one-stop book that will give you all the information you need in a clear and easy to understand way, then this is the book for you.

Richard Costello  is community service manager, Phoenix House