Substance Misuse in Wales is a complex problem that has wide-ranging and harmful implications for the quality of life of individuals, families and communities.
 
‘Working Together to Reduce Harm 2008-2018’ is a ten year strategy set out by the Welsh Assembly Government in relation to tackling substance misuse. The Vale of Glamorgan is committed to its key goals which are;

Preventing Harm – Through the education of young people and parents as to the dangers of substance misuse. Through media outlets and promoting best practice at ground level with regards to preventing harm in the community.

Support for Substance Misusers to Improve Health and Maintain Recovery – To include service user representation and develop service user groups to encourage and maintain engagement in services. To reduce harm. To reduce drug related deaths through the rolling out of naloxone as well as improving information outlets to a broad range of substance users. To improve services available in line with specific performance targets.

Supporting and protecting families – To protect children and families against the devastating impact of substance misuse. To look at and address the links between substance misuse and domestic abuse and develop clear working strategies.

Tackling availability – To tackle the availability of alcohol to underage drinkers. To tackle to availability of street drugs across the Vale of Glamorgan.