Last year the UK reviewed its national drug strategy. At the core of this revised strategy is the link between problematic drug use and crime. The Updated Drug Strategy reported that in 2000, over 30% of British Crime Survey respondents identified drugs as a serious problem in their area (Home Office, 2002 p39). These respondents described a range of concerns from anti-social behaviour associated with drug dealing and the activities of users whilst under the influence of drugs. Such activities include discarding of used injecting equipment and crime such as burglary. These activities impact across society, from individual communities to the drain on resources of the National Health Service, local authorities and other agencies. The UK Government estimates the financial impact as between £2.9 and £5.3 billion. The UK Government also estimated that when social costs such as those to victims of crime are considered 'then the total rises to between £10.1 and £17.4 billion. Problematic drug users are estimated to account for 99% of these costs.' (Ibid. p40)The UK Government has therefore placed great store in alleviating the effects of drug misuse on communities, and whilst the simplest solution might appear to be punishment of offenders by incarceration in prison, the longer-term disadvantages of such an approach appear to out weigh this 'quick fix' solution.'Treatment works. Getting drug users into treatment and support is the best way of improving their health and increasing their ability to lead fulfilling lives. Treatment breaks the cycle of drug misuse and crime, and investing in treatment reduces the overall cost of drug misuse to society' (Ibid. p50).
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